Theories of Motivation
Theory
Definition
Advantages
Disadvantages
Instinct Theory
Certain behaviors are
innate and due to
evolutionary programming
Behavior is motivated
by the desire to reduce
internal tension caused
by unmet biological needs
Behavior is motivated by
the "pull" of external goals
Forms of the basis of today's
evolutionary theory
Useful in explaining
motivated behaviors that
have biological components
Arousal Theory
People are motivated to
maintain an individual
optimal level of arousal
Explains the search for varied
and novel activities;
sensation seeking
Humanistic
Theories
Emphasizes the importance
of psychological and
cognitive factors in
motivation;
self-actualization
Recognizes biological needs
and the importance of the
environment
Complex behaviors
cannot be explained so
easily
Many behaviors cannot
be explained by drive
reduction or
homeostasis
Cannot explain
behaviors that have no
apparent external
worth
Adds to homeostasis
but does not replace it;
not a comprehensive
theory
Basic ideas of Maslow's
hierarchy of needs are
not supported by
research
Drive Theory
Incentive
Motivation
Based on well-established
learning principles