MOTIVATION

Definition

The following definitions of MOTIVATION were gleaned from a variety of psychology textbooks and reflect the general consensus that motivation is an internal state or condition (sometimes described as a need, desire, or want) that serves to activate or energize behavior and give it direction (see Kleinginna and Kleinginna, 1981a).

• Internal state or condition that activates behavior and gives it direction;
• Desire or want that energizes and directs goal-oriented behavior;
• Influence of needs and desires on the intensity and direction of behavior.

Franken (1994) provides an additional component in his definition:

• The Arousal, Direction, and Persistence of Behavior.

While still not widespread in terms of introductory psychology textbooks, many researchers are now beginning to acknowledge that the factors that energize behavior are likely different from the factors that provide for its persistence.