Final answer:
Fractional antedating goal responses are psychological concepts implying that motivation increases as one approaches a goal, with certain stimuli associated with the anticipated goal increasing drive. Originally introduced by Clark L. Hull, this concept is important in areas where motivation is critical, such as education and workplace productivity.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fractional antedating goal responses are a concept in psychology that relates to the motivational impact of an anticipated goal. The term was coined by Clark L. Hull, a behavioral psychologist, who proposed that the closer an individual gets to a goal, the stronger the motivation becomes. According to this theory, certain stimuli or responses become associated with the goal and begin to appear fractionally before the goal is reached, thus serving as a fraction of the goal experience. These responses can thus have reinforcing properties and are anticipated by the individual, thereby increasing motivation.
Hull's theory suggests that as a person approaches the completion of a task or is closer to achieving a goal, the incentives associated with the goal start becoming more salient, effectively increasing the person's drive to reach the goal. This principle is often considered in various fields where motivation is a key factor, including educational psychology, workplace productivity, and behavior modification programs.