Expectancy Theory Of Motivation

Another form of motivation is the incentive theory of motivation. This theory of motivation is based on the theory that one is motivated to reach a desired outcome for the incentive of an external reward. This external reward, whether materialistic or social attention and acceptance, will motivate one to pursue that desired outcome. One will pursue a certain stimulus to create that reward more so if the perceived reward is greater than if there is little or no external reward. For example, one may set a small, short term weight loss goal of 10% of total body fat percentage. After this goal is reached, one will typically reward his- or her- self with some sort of materialistic item. However, after reaching this goal, some in his or her social …show more content…
When there is a perceived outcome to one’s actions are positive, one is more optimistic in pursuing the necessary steps to achieve the goal. However, if the perceived outcome is negative, the outcome is not likely to be reinforced. Three key elements play a role in these perceived outcomes: instrumentality, valence, and expectancy. Instrumentality can be described as one’s perceived personal role in the outcome. If one identifies him- or her- self as the primary one in control of the situation, he or she will be more likely to pursue the stimulus or desired outcome. One is also motivated by a high valence value of the desired or perceived outcome. Valence appertains to the desirability or significance of the desired outcome. A high valence refers to an immediate compensation, which leads to a more desired outcome in a faster time period as well as one persevering more to accomplish the goal. Finally, expectancy is a key element in motivation in that if one believes they have the capabilities to accomplish the perceived or desired goal, they will persevere longer to achieve it. However, if one considers themselves inadequate because they lack the skills and/or are deficient in the knowledge of the …show more content…
As previously stated, optimal levels of motivation vary between individuals as well as different situations - which makes the perseverance stronger in some depending on the perceived goal. Each of these theories can be related to what motivates one to exercise, either through basic needs, social response, or interpersonal acceptance – as well as how strong the motivation and concentration is to persevere a vigorous goal through many