Biological Factors in Motivation

Definition

These refer to physiological factors that influence our behaviors such as hunger, thirst, sex drive etc., which motivate us to fulfill our basic survival requirements.

Analogy

Consider biological factors in motivation like your body’s fuel gauge. When you're running low on fuel (food/water), your body sends signals (hunger/thirst) to motivate you to refill.

Related terms

Drive-Reduction Theory: This theory suggests that physiological needs create an aroused state that drives us to reduce the need (e.g., eating to reduce hunger).

Homeostasis: The body's ability to maintain a stable internal environment despite changes in external conditions.

Instinct Theory of Motivation: This theory states that all organisms are born with innate biological tendencies that help them survive.