EDUC 220 Lecture Notes - Lecture 10: Learned Helplessness, Goal Orientation, Social Comparison Theory
Document Summary
Historical theories of motivation: instinct theory: we act in ways we do because of instinctual patterns of behaviour. Imprinting: instinctive behaviours that are not present at birth but which emerge after exposure to suitable stimulus during a critical period: 4 components: innate, relatively unmodifiable, complex behaviour, species specific. Attachment: emotional bond characterized by a tendency to seek and maintain closeness: babies can grow attachment to neglecting parents, as long as there is stimulation (secure or insecure attachment, psychological hedonism. Behavioural theories of motivation: motivation is controlled through reinforcement and punishment: freud"s theory of motivation. Eros: positive force that brings about behaviours like caring and love. For every activity there is an optimal level of arousal. Individuals act to maintain this optimal level. Competence motivation (white: people need to feel competent, therefore, people develop a drive for mastery, pride and feelings of efficacy result from competence.