Motivation Theories

Theories of Motivation

The word motivation is coined from the Latin word "movere", which means to move.  Motivation is a reason or set or reasons for engaging in a particular behavior.  Motivation can be defined as the processes that account for an individual’s intensity, direction and persistence of effort towards attaining a goal. The motivation of people depends on the strength of their motives.  Motives are defined as needs, wants, drives, or impulses within an individual.  Motives are directed towards goals, which may be conscious or subconscious.  Motivation can be described as the process of arousing and sustaining goal-directed behavior.  A positive motivation philosophy and practice should improve help productivity, quality and service. Motivation helps people to:

·         achieve goals

·         gain a positive perspective

·         create the power to change

·         build self-esteem and capability

·         manage their own development and help others with theirs

 Types of Motivation

Extrinsic Motivation (Carol Bainbridge)

Extrinsic motivation refers to motivation to engage in an activity as a means to an end. Extrinsic motivation refers to motivation that comes from outside an individual. The motivating factors are external, or outside, rewards such as money or grades. These rewards provide satisfaction and pleasure that the task itself may not provide.

An extrinsically motivated person will work on a task even when they have little interest in it because of the anticipated satisfaction they will get from some reward. The rewards can be something as minor as a smiley face to something major like fame or fortune. For example, an extrinsically motivated person who dislikes math may work hard on a math equation because want the reward for completing it. In the case of a student, the reward would be a good grade on an assignment or in the class.

Intrinsic Motivation (Carol Bainbridge)

Intrinsic motivation refers to motivation that...