A learned drive is a type of motivation that is not directly related to biological needs, such as hunger, thirst, or sex. Instead, it is based on learning and experience, and it can vary from person to person. For example, some people may have a learned drive to achieve academic success, while others may have a learned drive to pursue artistic expression.
But how can we achieve a learned drive that is not directly related to biological needs? What are the factors that influence our motivation and behavior? In this article, we will explore some of the theories and concepts that can help us understand and enhance our learned drives.
Drive Reduction Theory
One of the classic theories of motivation is the drive reduction theory, which proposes that people seek to reduce internal levels of drive. A drive is an uncomfortable internal state that motivates us to reduce this discomfort through our behavior. For example, when we are hungry, we have a drive to eat; when we are thirsty, we have a drive to drink.
According to this theory, there are two types of drives: primary and secondary. Primary drives are those that motivate us to maintain homeostasis in certain biological processes in the body, such as temperature, blood sugar, and oxygen levels. Secondary drives are those that are learned through association with primary drives or other stimuli, such as money, fame, or power.
The drive reduction theory suggests that we are motivated by negative feedback loops, which are systems of feedback in the body that monitor and adjust our motivation level so as to maintain homeostasis. For example, when our blood sugar level drops, we feel hungry; when we eat, our blood sugar level rises and we feel satisfied.
However, this theory has some limitations. It does not explain why some people seek out stimulation or challenge rather than reducing their drives. It also does not account for the role of incentives, goals, or desires that we are motivated to fulfill.
Self-Determination Theory
Another theory of motivation that can help us understand learned drives is the self-determination theory, which proposes that as we pursue the fulfillment of basic needs, we experience different types of motivation that come from both the self and the outside world. This theory distinguishes between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.
Intrinsic motivation is the motivation that comes from within the person. It is based on interest, enjoyment, curiosity, or satisfaction. For example, someone who loves to play chess may be intrinsically motivated to improve their skills or challenge themselves.
Extrinsic motivation is the motivation that comes from outside the person. It is based on rewards, punishments, expectations, or obligations. For example, someone who studies hard for an exam may be extrinsically motivated by the desire to get a good grade or avoid failure.
The self-determination theory suggests that intrinsic motivation is more conducive to psychological well-being and optimal performance than extrinsic motivation. However, extrinsic motivation can also be beneficial if it supports our autonomy, competence, and relatedness. These are the three basic psychological needs that underlie our intrinsic motivation and growth.
Autonomy is the need to feel that we have control over our own actions and choices. Competence is the need to feel that we have the skills and abilities to achieve our goals. Relatedness is the need to feel connected and valued by others.
According to this theory, we can enhance our learned drives by finding activities that match our interests and values, by setting realistic and challenging goals for ourselves, by seeking feedback and support from others, and by recognizing and rewarding our own efforts and achievements.
Hierarchy of Needs
A third theory of motivation that can help us understand learned drives is the hierarchy of needs proposed by Abraham Maslow. This theory suggests that humans are motivated by different needs, some of which take precedence over others. Maslow arranged these needs in a pyramid-like structure, with the most basic needs at the bottom and the most complex needs at the top.
The bottom four levels of the pyramid are considered deficiency needs, which are those that arise from a lack or deprivation of something essential for survival or well-being. These include physiological needs (such as food, water, air), safety needs (such as security, stability, protection), belongingness and love needs (such as affection, intimacy
