Final answer:
In the motivation formula, 'e' represents expectancy, which is related to an individual's belief that their behavior will yield a specific outcome. Expectancy is integral to motivational theories and is directly connected to concepts like self-efficacy and is a key component in expectancy theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the formula for motivation VxE=motivation, the letter "e" refers to expectancy or expectation. Expectancy in the context of motivation theories often relates to the belief or the degree of certainty an individual has that a particular behavior will lead to the desired outcome. This concept is an integral part of various motivational theories, including those by psychologists such as Albert Bandura and Victor Vroom. Bandura's concept of self-efficacy is closely linked to expectancy as it involves belief in one's capabilities to execute the actions required to manage prospective situations. Vroom, on the other hand, proposed expectancy theory, which suggests that individuals are motivated to act when they believe that their effort will lead to favorable performance and that this performance will lead to a desirable reward.
Motivation comprises internal and/or external factors that direct behavior toward goals, incorporating different levels and types of needs as described by Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs and encompassing social motives such as the needs for achievement, affiliation, and intimacy.