Final answer:
The forces that regulate behavior toward a goal in psychology are referred to as motivation, which is a complex interplay of biological, emotional, social, and cognitive factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks about the forces that regulate behavior toward a goal, which is referred to as motivation. In psychology, motivation is understood as the drive that initiates, guides, and maintains goal-oriented behaviors. Motivation involves biological, emotional, social, and cognitive forces that activate behavior. The concept is deeply integrated into various theories, including the instinct theory of motivation, proposed by William James, which asserts that certain behaviors like an infant's rooting for a nipple and sucking are instinctive.Cognitive psychology focuses on the study of human thinking and how it influences behavior, while social psychology emphasizes the impact of situational factors on behavior. An important component of motivation is the concept of homeostasis, which is the body's attempt to maintain balance. Self-regulation, also referred to as will power, plays a crucial role in how individuals pursue and achieve their goals.