Analyze the three theories of motivation. Propose how these approaches reflect broad evolutionary, biological, behavioral, and social approaches in psychology.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Biological theories outline biological contributions to motivation. Theories that represent the biological focus include the instinct theory (motivation is driven by survival needs), the drive reduction theory (internal tension occurs if a biological need is not met), and the arousal theory (motivation to achieve an optimal level of arousal). The instinct theory reflects an evolutionary focus, while the drive reduction and arousal theories reflect a more biological approach. Learning theories of motivation include incentive theories (motivated by external goals) and social motives (affiliation, achievement, dominance, approval, and power). Learning theories address motivations that are driven by behavioral rules of reinforcement and punishment, and social motives are driven by an approach and avoidance of social consequences. Lastly, humanistic approaches to motivation suggest that humans have a positive drive toward personal growth and fulfillment. Maslow's hierarchy represents biological and social approaches in psychology.