Describe two main psychoanalytic theories, including the contributions and criticisms of these theories. I have always been fascinated by Freud’s psychosexual theory of human development and the ID/Ego/Superego trichotomy. Although I will admit that Freud’s view of conscious/unconscious conflict and repression are very good at explaining some human behavior but cannot be readily isolated as... Continue Reading →
Question: Give a detailed overview of Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. Compare and contrast physiological and psychological needs. Response: Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs follows a logical progression: physiological, safety, belongingness, esteem, and self-actualization (Deckers, 2005). Maslow’s basic assumption is that lesser needs must be satisfied before higher needs can be addressed and satiated. Physiological needs are... Continue Reading →
Question: Give an overview of biological theory as it pertains to motivation. What role does the brain play in terms of motivation? Include in your answer details about brain structure and functions, as well as brain activity and emotions, as all relate to motivation. Response: Homeostasis seems like one of the best examples of the... Continue Reading →
This course seems to build quite a bit on past courses I have taken, such as biopsychology and positive psychology. I guess one of the most relevant ideas I will take away from this week is the difference between free will/determinism and free act/determined act. I had to read this section a few times to... Continue Reading →
Freud and unconscious conflict, Pavlov and learning, Darwin and natural selection; all of these great men of science developed theories to explain the world around us and within us. They did not, however, develop these theories outside the context of their surroundings, their upbringing, or their own personalities. President-elect Barack Obama will soon become the... Continue Reading →
The great motivational writer Orison Marden once said, “Deep within man dwell those slumbering powers…that would revolutionize his life if aroused and put into action” (Marden, n.d.). The evolution of my young adult life has been marked by words such as these. During these past few years, I have been struggling with identity versus role... Continue Reading →
Les Brown (n.d.), the famous big band player, once said, “We all need some form of deeply rooted, powerful motivation – it empowers us to overcome obstacles so we can live our dreams.” This quote hits at the very center of the need for motivation. I mean, why do we need to be motivated? Put... Continue Reading →
