Question

Your psychology professor tells you, "Explaining behavior is easy! When we lack something, we are motivated to get it." Which approach to motivation does your professor subscribe to?

Short answer

The professor subscribes to a need-based theory of motivation, most likely Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.

Step-by-step solution

Understand Motivation Theories

There are several approaches to understanding motivation in psychology. These include need-based theories, cognitive theories, and biological theories, amongst others. The phrase 'when we lack something, we are motivated to get it' suggests that the speaker believes in a theory assuming that the lack of something is the driver of motivation.

Identify the Relevant Theory

Among the need-based theories, the most widely recognized is Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. This theory is based on the idea that we are moved to action by our unmet needs. Therefore, when we lack something (such as basic needs like food or water, safety, love and belonging, esteem, or self-actualization), we become motivated to obtain it.

Formulate the Answer

Given the statement provided 'when we lack something, we are motivated to get it', it can be inferred that the professor subscribes to a need-based theory of motivation, most likely Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.

Key concepts

Need-Based Theories

Need-based theories of motivation are grounded in the idea that human actions are driven by needs that must be fulfilled.
One of the most known need-based theories is Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. This theory suggests that our behavior is directed by an internal push to satisfy unmet needs.

These needs can be categorized into different levels:

• Basic Needs: These include physiological necessities like food, water, and shelter.
• Safety Needs: This level encompasses security and protection from danger.
• Social Needs: Humans have a desire for love, belonging, and social connections.
• Esteem Needs: This refers to the need for self-esteem, recognition, and respect from others.
• Self-Actualization: The aspiration to achieve one's potential and pursue personal growth and fulfillment.

Maslow posited that lower-level needs must be satisfied before higher-level needs become motivational. This theory emphasizes the priority of needs and its influence on human conduct.

Motivation in Psychology

Motivation plays a central role in psychological studies as it relates to the processes that drive individuals to act.
Understanding what prompts and sustains particular actions is key to understanding both individual and collective behavior.

Motivation can be influenced by a variety of factors, such as:

• Needs: These are essentials that must be satisfied for well-being, such as hunger, security, or social connections.
• Gains: The potential for material or personal rewards can trigger motivation.
• Goals: Setting and striving towards goals often provides direction and purpose.

In psychology, motivation is often categorized into intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. Intrinsic motivation arises from within, driven by personal satisfaction or enjoyment in the task itself. Conversely, extrinsic motivation involves external incentives like rewards or avoiding punishment.

Psychological Needs

Psychological needs are essential components that contribute to an individual's mental health and well-being. These needs, if unmet, can significantly impact one's motivation and behavior.
Understanding psychological needs is crucial for realizing how they affect our day-to-day decision-making and overall life satisfaction.

Psychological needs encompass the following:

• Autonomy: A sense of independence and control over one's life is fundamental for personal development.
• Competence: Feeling effective and capable in one's activities enhances confidence and motivation.
• Relatedness: This need is associated with forming emotional bonds and feeling connected to others.

Meeting these needs fosters positive outcomes like greater satisfaction, well-being, and personal improvement. Ignoring these needs may lead to decreased motivation and psychological distress.

Behavior Explanation

Explaining behavior is a complex task that requires consideration of multiple psychological factors. Understanding why individuals act as they do can be analyzed through different theoretical lenses, including need-based perspectives.
Behavior explanation seeks to uncover the motivations behind actions and the fundamental needs driving these actions.

To explain behavior effectively:

• Examine the specific needs unmet which may be guiding behavior, as described by need-based theories.
• Consider the role of the social environment and how interactions with others influence motivations.
• Address any cognitive processes that might be shaping perceptions and decision-making.

A comprehensive behavior explanation not only considers basic needs but also looks at cognitive and environmental factors. Understanding these interactions offers valuable insights into human motivation and behavior, essential for devising strategies to encourage positive actions.