Psychological Factors in Motivation

Definition

These are mental elements that stimulate an individual's desire for achievement or change. They include needs, desires, fears, ambitions etc., which drive behavior towards certain goals.

Analogy

Imagine being at an amusement park with various rides. Your psychological factors are like different attractions pulling you towards them - maybe you're drawn towards thrill rides because you crave excitement (desire), or perhaps you avoid them due to fear of heights (fear).

Related terms

Intrinsic Motivation: This refers to doing something because it's personally rewarding rather than for some external reward.

Extrinsic Motivation: This involves performing a behavior or engaging in an activity to earn a reward or avoid punishment.

Drive-Reduction Theory: A motivational theory suggesting that humans act out of need; when we have unmet needs (like hunger), this creates discomfort, driving us to meet those needs.