Hedonic theory of motivation

Individuals, according to the hedonic theory of motivation, are driven by the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of suffering.

Key concepts

This theory proposes that individuals are motivated to seek out enjoyable experiences and avoid or flee from unpleasant ones. To create a positive emotional state, individuals are motivated to pursue pleasure and avoid pain.

Proponents

Epicurus, one of the early proponents of the hedonic theory of motivation, believed that the purpose of human existence was to pursue pleasure and avoid misery. The nineteenth-century psychologist Herbert Spencer also suggested a hedonic theory of motivation, contending that all human activity is motivated by the desire for pleasure and the avoidance of suffering.

Use in psychology

The hedonic theory of motivation has been applied to the study of several psychological phenomena, including addiction, eating disorders, and depression, in contemporary psychology.

Research

For instance, research suggests that persons with addiction may be motivated by a hedonic desire for the pleasurable effects of drugs or alcohol, but those with eating disorders may be motivated by a need to regulate their weight and attain a pleasing body image.

Criticism

The hedonic theory of motivation has been challenged for its restricted scope and simplifying of human behavior. Other elements, such as objectives, values, and social conventions, have a substantial role in molding human behavior in addition to pleasure and suffering. In addition, the hedonic theory does not account for the possibility that some people are motivated by non-pleasure-seeking activities, such as helping others, learning, or self-improvement.

Conclusion

The hedonic theory of motivation suggests, in conclusion, that people are driven by the pursuit of pleasure and the avoidance of pain. The application of this theory to the study of numerous psychological phenomena has created a valuable framework for comprehending human behavior. Nevertheless, it must be noted that other factors play a substantial role in molding human conduct and that the hedonic theory is not the sole or most comprehensive account of human motivation.

References

1. Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The “what” and “why” of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227-268.
2. Koestner, R., Losier, G. F., & Vallerand, R. J. (2002). Self-regulation and academic achievement: The mediating role of goal processes. Journal of Educational Psychology, 94(3), 660-667.
3. Ryan, R. M., & Deci, E. L. (2000). Self-determination theory and the facilitation of intrinsic motivation, social development, and well-being. American Psychologist, 55(1), 68-78.
4. Baumeister, R. F., & Vohs, K. D. (2004). Handbook of self-regulation: Research, theory, and applications. Guilford Press.
5. Baumeister, R. F., & Tierney, J. (2011). Willpower: Rediscovering the greatest human strength. Penguin.

Hedonic theory of motivation Resources
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