Final answer:
Motivation is the driving force behind our actions, categorized as intrinsic or extrinsic based on internal satisfaction or external rewards, respectively. Different theories explain why we are motivated, and motivation must be distinguished from satisfaction, which is the contentment felt after achieving a goal.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Motivation and its Influence on Behavior
Motivation can be described as the wants or needs that direct our behavior toward a goal. This complex subject explains why we engage in specific behaviors and how different factors can influence the decisions we make. Motivation can be broadly categorized as intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsic motivation is driven by internal rewards, such as personal satisfaction and fulfillment. For example, someone who is intrinsically motivated may pursue an education simply because they love to learn and desire to be a more well-rounded individual.
Conversely, extrinsic motivation comes from external sources, such as the desire for monetary rewards, social recognition, or to satisfy other's expectations. For instance, an individual might enroll in college to obtain a lucrative job or under the pressure of parental expectations. Different theories, including those of instincts, drive reduction, self-efficacy, and social motives, attempt to elucidate the complexities of motivation. The hierarchy of needs presented by Abraham Maslow outlines the progression from basic physiological needs to higher-level aspirations such as self-actualization.
It is also essential to understand that motivation is not the same as satisfaction. While both can influence behavior, motivation is about the drive to achieve a goal, whereas satisfaction is the contentment one feels once the goal is accomplished. External motivators can sometimes undermine intrinsic motivation, especially when expected as rewards for completing tasks. A person who is intrinsically motivated to learn might be less motivated if a school uses concrete rewards to enhance adaptive behaviors, as this could diminish the personal satisfaction derived from learning itself.