Your psychology professor tells you, "Explaining behavior is easy! When we lack something, we are motivated to get it." Which approach to motivation does your professor subscribe to?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The professor subscribes to a need-based theory of motivation, most likely Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Motivation Theories

There are several approaches to understanding motivation in psychology. These include need-based theories, cognitive theories, and biological theories, amongst others. The phrase 'when we lack something, we are motivated to get it' suggests that the speaker believes in a theory assuming that the lack of something is the driver of motivation.
02

Identify the Relevant Theory

Among the need-based theories, the most widely recognized is Abraham Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs. This theory is based on the idea that we are moved to action by our unmet needs. Therefore, when we lack something (such as basic needs like food or water, safety, love and belonging, esteem, or self-actualization), we become motivated to obtain it.
03

Formulate the Answer

Given the statement provided 'when we lack something, we are motivated to get it', it can be inferred that the professor subscribes to a need-based theory of motivation, most likely Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs.

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