Final answer:
Atkinson conceptualized the 'need for achievement' as the driving force behind seeking achievement situations, while the 'fear of failure' is the avoidance or anxiety towards such situations. These forces are critical in shaping an individual's approach to achievement and are connected to the larger context of self-efficacy and social motivations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question seems to be asking about motivational forces that impact achievement situations according to Atkinson's theory. Atkinson conceptualized the need for achievement as a force within the person to pursue and favor achievement situations.
In contrast, the fear of failure refers to a force within the person to avoid or to feel anxious about achievement situations. These motivations play a crucial role in determining an individual's behavior and are part of a broader set of social motives that include the need for achievement, affiliation, and intimacy as described by various theorists.
Essentially, individuals with a high need for achievement are driven to accomplish and perform effectively in their endeavors. They set high standards for themselves and take on challenging tasks.
Conversely, those with a high fear of failure may avoid situations where there is a risk of not succeeding due to the potential of experiencing negative emotions associated with failure.
This concept aligns with the broader notion that self-efficacy and motivation are influenced by one's belief in their capacity to succeed and the value they place on achieving their goals.