Theories of Motivation

Lily Scott
10 min read
Study Guide Overview
This AP Psychology study guide covers motivation, including: definitions of motivation, instincts, incentives, and intrinsic vs. extrinsic motivation. It explores the overjustification effect, achievement motivation, and self-efficacy. Theories of motivation covered are Instinct, Drive-Reduction, Optimal Arousal (including Yerkes-Dodson Law), and Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Finally, it examines types of motivation such as eating, sexual, and social motivations and provides practice questions and exam tips.
#AP Psychology: Motivation - Your Ultimate Study Guide 🚀
Hey there, future AP Psych pro! This guide is designed to be your go-to resource for all things motivation, especially as you're gearing up for the big exam. Let's dive in and make sure you're feeling confident and ready to ace it! 💪
#What is Motivation?
Motivation is the force that drives our behaviors. Think of it as the "why" behind everything we do. Whether it's studying for this exam 💯 or grabbing a snack, motivation is at play. It's not just about big goals; it's woven into our everyday actions.
#Key Motivational Concepts
- Instincts: These are our innate, unconscious behaviors. They just feel right. It's like a reflex, but for more complex actions.
- Incentives: These are the external factors that pull us toward or push us away from certain behaviors. They can be positive (rewards) or negative (punishments).🚶
- Intrinsic Motivation: Doing something for the pure joy of it! Like reading a book because you love to read ❤️📖. It's all about internal satisfaction.
- Extrinsic Motivation: Doing something for an external reward or to avoid punishment. Like reading a book to complete a summer assignment ✔️📖. External factors drive this type of motivation.
Intrinsic motivation is generally stronger and more sustainable than extrinsic motivation.
#Image Courtesy of Sites at Penn State.
Think of it this way: Intrinsic motivation is like doing something because you love it, while extrinsic motivation is like doing something for a prize. Overjustification can ruin the fun of intrinsic motivation by adding too many external rewards. Self-efficacy is your belief in your ability to succeed, which can make all the difference!
#Theories of Motivation
Let's explore the main theories that explain why we do what we do. Each has its strengths and weaknesses, so pay attention to the nuances!
#Instinct Theory (Evolutionary)
- Core Idea: Behaviors are driven by our instincts, which are innate and help us survive. This theory is rooted in Charles Darwin's natural selection.
- Focus: Survival and adaptation. We are motivated to do things that ensure we live long enough to pass on our genes. 💕
Example | Strength of Theory 👍 | Weakness of Theory 👎 |
---|---|---|
All babies display innate reflexes like rooting and sucking | Explains similarities due to our ancestral past. | Better at explaining animal behaviors than complex human behaviors. |
#Drive-Reduction Theory (Biological)
- Core Idea: We are motivated to reduce internal tension caused by unmet need...

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