Title: Cognitive Theory of Motivation - The Psychology Notes Headquarters
Headings: Cognitive Theory of Motivation
Cognitive Theory of Motivation
Assumptions
Types of Motivation
Goal Setting Theory
Expectancy – Value Theory
Attribution Theory

Content: This type of motivation corresponds to our inherent desire to express our authentic selves through selected actions and behaviors, across different settings, whether at work or at play. Moreover, intrinsic motivation is quite effective as those of us who are intrinsically-motivated feel that we can influence and determine the outcomes of our efforts. The notion of intrinsic motivation helps explain why some people prefer a lower-paying job that they like over a more lucrative one which may offer more material rewards but not as much enjoyment. Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, is experienced when our actions are influenced by the desire to attain goal objects or rewards. Rewards may be tangible, such as food or money, or intangible, such as pride and recognition. Goal Setting Theory
According to one cognitive theory of motivation, the Goal Setting Theory, three factors affect our probability of success in achieving an outcome. Specifically, these are
the time set for the attainment of a goal
the degree of complexity or difficulty of the goal
the specificity of the goal
Ideally, the shorter the time between the initiation of action toward a goal and the time the goal is achieved, the greater are the chances of success. With regard to level of complexity of the goal, this factor determines how attractive the goal is to us. A goal is most attractive and appealing to us if it is neither too easy nor too difficult to attain. Goals that are too easy fail to provide satisfaction while goals that are too difficult to obtain can cause us to feel discouraged and expend less effort in trying to attain the goal.