Motivation Theory

How Motivation originates inside an individual's mind.

Ways to intrinsically motivate humans to learn.

Historical psychology : Biological needs  is an important contributing factor driving humans to perform a task.
Later modern studies add two more types of motivations :
- Intrinsic motivation - Driven by an individual interest. enjoyment and satisfaction in a task
- Extrinsic motivation -Driven by external factors either in the forms of tangible or intangible rewards such as money, prizes, compliment or even punishments and competition.

Unlike extrinsic motivation directing human's attention to the outcome of activities rather than the joy of experiencing such activities.

Intrinsic motivation appears to be the most important source of psychic energy: promoting lifelong human learning and development, leading to more enjoyable learning experience, more curiosity to explore, more energy to master and stronger activity engagement


Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs

1943, Abraham Maslow - A Theory of Human Motivation - Psychological Review journal
Main idea - Humans are motivated by unsatisfied needs : Deficiency needs

Fundamental layers of deficiency  needs

1. Physiological needs - requirements for human survival such as air, food, water , ...   If not satisfied, body will no longer function which resulting in strong motivation to fulfill these needs.  e.g.  Cafeterias, Vending Machines, Drinking fountain

2. Safety needs - Need to be free from physical threats and emotional harms : Personal security, Financial security and health and well-being   e.g.  Economic - Wages and Salaries, Fringe Benefits, Retirement benefits, Medical Benefits   Psychological - Provide job description, Avoid Abrupt Changes, Solve Employee problem   Physical - Working conditions, Heating and Ventilation, Rest Period

3. Love and Belonging - Needs for social connections and social acceptance  e.g. Encourage social interactions, Create Teamspirit, Facilitate outside social activities, Use periodic praises, Allow participation

4. Esteem - Needs for respect of others and self respect in order to feel accepted and valued   e.g. Design challenging jobs, Use praise and awards, Delegate responsibility, Give training, Encourage participation

5. Self-Actualization - Desire to reach full potential as a person. Motivators are truth, justice, wisdom and the likes.  e.g. Give trainings, Encourage creativity



Lower level needs must be satisfied first before a person can be motivated by elements in higher levels

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