Click image to open full size
Psychology
Grade 9-12
Motivation Theories Reference Cheat Sheet
A printable reference covering instinct theory, drive-reduction theory, arousal theory, incentive theory, Maslow’s hierarchy, and self-determination theory for grades 9-12.
Related Worksheets
Most motivation theories focus on biological needs, external rewards, internal goals, or the desire to reach one’s potential. Drive-reduction theory explains behavior as an attempt to reduce internal tension, while arousal theory explains behavior as an attempt to reach an ideal level of alertness. Incentive theory focuses on rewards and punishments outside the person. Maslow’s hierarchy and self-determination theory emphasize growth, meaning, autonomy, competence, and connection.
Key Facts
- Instinct theory says some behaviors are motivated by inborn patterns, such as reflexes, survival behaviors, or species-typical actions.
- Drive-reduction theory says a biological need creates a drive, and behavior is motivated by reducing that drive to restore homeostasis.
- Homeostasis means the body works to maintain stable internal conditions, such as body temperature, hydration, and blood sugar.
- Arousal theory says people are motivated to seek an optimal arousal level, where performance and alertness feel balanced.
- The Yerkes-Dodson law states that performance is usually best at moderate arousal and worse when arousal is too low or too high.
- Incentive theory says behavior is motivated by external rewards or punishments, such as money, praise, grades, or social approval.
- Maslow’s hierarchy of needs is often listed as physiological needs, safety, love and belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.
- Self-determination theory says intrinsic motivation increases when autonomy, competence, and relatedness are supported.
Vocabulary
- Motivation
- Motivation is the internal and external process that starts, directs, and maintains behavior.
- Drive
- A drive is an internal state of tension caused by an unmet biological need.
- Incentive
- An incentive is an external reward or punishment that influences behavior.
- Intrinsic Motivation
- Intrinsic motivation is doing an activity because it is interesting, enjoyable, or personally meaningful.
- Extrinsic Motivation
- Extrinsic motivation is doing an activity to gain a reward or avoid a punishment.
- Self-Actualization
- Self-actualization is the motivation to develop one’s abilities and reach personal potential.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing drives with incentives is wrong because drives come from internal needs, while incentives come from external rewards or consequences.
- Treating Maslow’s hierarchy as a strict rule is wrong because people may pursue belonging, esteem, or growth even when some lower needs are not fully met.
- Assuming more arousal always improves performance is wrong because the Yerkes-Dodson law predicts that very high arousal can hurt focus and accuracy.
- Calling every rewarded behavior extrinsic only is wrong because a person can enjoy an activity and also receive an outside reward for it.
- Using one theory to explain every motivated behavior is wrong because motivation often combines biology, learning, emotions, culture, and personal goals.
Practice Questions
- 1 A student eats lunch because they feel hungry and want to reduce stomach discomfort. Which motivation theory best explains this behavior?
- 2 A runner trains harder after being promised a medal and public recognition. Identify the type of motivation and the theory that best fits this example.
- 3 A test-taker performs best when they feel alert but not panicked. Which law explains this pattern, and what does it say about arousal?
- 4 Two students both study for an exam, but one studies to master the material and the other studies only to avoid punishment. Explain how their motivations differ conceptually.