About Psychology: The Psychology of Motivation

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Psychology Psychology Basics Theories Experiments From Kendra Cherry, your Guide to Psychology What motivates you to take action? Psychologists have proposed a number of different theories. Sometimes we act in order to gain an incentive, while other times we do things simply for the sheer enjoyment. In this week's newsletter, we will take a closer look at the psychology behind motivation. What Is Motivation? First things first, let's start by answering the basic question: What is motivation? Learn the answer Search Related Topics:  motivation  Theories of Motivation Now that you understand what motivation is, it's time to focus on the forces that underlie our actions. Some theories state that we do things to maintain an ideal level of arousal, while others suggest that we take action to gain rewards or avoid punishments... Learn more Search Related Topics:  motivation  hierarchy of needs  How External Forces Impact Behavior? When motivation is driven a desire to gain a reward or avoid a punishment, it is known as extrinsic motivation. Extrinsic motivation can have a powerful influence on behavior, but sometimes it can actually hinder our existing internal motivations. Learn more Search Related Topics:  extrinsic motivation  intrinsic motivation  reinforcement How Do Internal Needs Influence Our Actions? Motivations that arise from within, on the other hand, are known as intrinsic motivations. Doing something because you find it fulfilling and personally rewarding is one example of an intrinsically motivated behavior... Learn more Search Related Topics:  extrinsic motivation  intrinsic motivation  reinforcement Related Searches Positive Psychology Psychology Job Stress Psychology About Psychology Study Psychology Featured Articles Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Motivation Five Ways to Achieve Flow What Is Conformity? 10 Facts About Child Development Take the Psychology Career Quiz Psychology Dictionary   More from About.com Run Your First 5K Even couch potatoes can be ready for a 5K with just a couple months of training. Read more...> Help! I'm Too Busy Time and stress management tips to help you feel as though you have more time. Read more...> This newsletter is written by: Kendra Cherry Psychology Guide Email Me | My Blog | My Forum   Sign up for more free newsletters on your favorite topics You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the About.com Psychology newsletter. If you wish to change your email address or unsubscribe, please click here. About.com respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 1500 Broadway, 6th Floor New York, NY, 10036 © 2013 About.com   From the Psychology Blog Summer Stress Relief for Students Is Passion the Key to Job Advancement? Are You an Emotional Eater?   Follow me on: Advertisement