Theories of Motivation

Instinct Theory - William James

1900

Behavior is driven by a number instincts which aid in survival. No one could agree on the definition of instincts.(Spielman, Dumper,
Jenkins, Lacombe, Lovett, & Perlmutter, 2014)

Drive-Reduction Theory - Clark Hull

1940

Based on the concept of homeostasis or the balance that results when all needs are met. A persons desire (or drive) to reduce discomfort when needs are not met. (The Drive-Reduction Theory of Motivation,2016)

Hierarchy of Needs - Abraham Maslow

1943

5 tier model of basic human needs. A persons most basic needs must be met before they are motivated to achieve high level of needs. (Mcleod, n.d.)

Two Factor Theory - Fredrick Herzberg

1956

There are two factors that effect motivation and satisfaction among employees. Hygiene Factors (wages, company policy, working conditions) and Motivator Factors (status, challenging work, recognition both factors must be met to have increase production. (Two-Factor Theory of Motivation, n.d)

Acquired Need Theory - Douglas McClelland

1960

Individuals acquire three types needs through out their life experiences. Those are the need for power, affiliation, and achievement which can be used to increase motivation in employees. (Principles of Management, 2015)

Attribution Theory - Bernard Weiner

1972

Attributes (or explanations) learners create to explain the results of an activity. Ability, effort, task difficulty and luck are factors that affect the attributes. Attributes can be classified by 3 dimensions: locus (internal vs external), stability (likely to change or fixed) and controllability (within ones control or not). (Cook & Artino, 2016)

Expectancy Value Theory - Jacquelynne Eccles

1980

Motivation is a function of the expectation of success and perceived value. Expectation of success is based on the degree to which the learner will be successful if they try. Value is based on the degree to which the learner perceives personal importance or intrinsic interest in the task. (Cook & Artino, 2016)

Self-Determination Theory - Edward Deci and Richard Ryan

1985

Motivation varies both in quantity and quality. Optimal performance results from actions motivated by intrinsic interests or by extrinsic values. (Cook & Artino, 2016)

Social Cognitive Theory - Albert Bandura

1986

Self efficacy is the primary reason for motivated action. Learning and performance result from reciprocal interactions among personal, behavioral and environmental factors. Self-efficacy is a subjective judgement on one's ability to learn or perform at a certain level. (Cook & Artino, 2016)

Goal Orientation Theory - Carol Dweck

1988

Goals in this theory refers the purpose of learning versus the objective. Learners are engaged in tasks to either master the content (mastery goal), do better than others (performance approach goal) or to avoid failure (performance avoidance goal). (Cook & Artino, 2016)