All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

Mechanistic view of motivation can be characterised as :
(a) S-O-R explanation.
(b) Direction of behaviour is determined by bonds between stimulus and response or habits.
(c) Probability of elicitation of various habits depend upon prior reinforcement contingencies.
(d) Behaviour once elicited persists until the removal of sustaining stimuli.

The correct answer is
(b), (c) and (d) only

Mechanistic Motivation Characteristics

The mechanistic view of motivation focuses on observable behaviors and the environmental factors that influence them, often described through stimulus-response relationships.

Analyzing the Statements

Let's examine each statement in the context of the mechanistic view:

  • Statement (b): This aligns with the mechanistic perspective. Behaviour is seen as a direct result of learned associations (habits) between specific stimuli and the responses they evoke.
  • Statement (c): This is a core tenet of behaviorism, closely linked to the mechanistic view. The likelihood of a specific behaviour (habit) occurring is determined by past experiences with reinforcement (rewards or punishments).
  • Statement (d): This describes a form of motivation driven by the removal of unpleasant stimuli (negative reinforcement). The behaviour persists because it successfully removes or avoids the stimulus, fitting a stimulus-response model.

Excluding S-O-R Explanation

Statement (a), suggesting an S-O-R (Stimulus-Organism-Response) explanation, is typically considered outside the purely mechanistic view. Mechanistic models primarily focus on the direct S-R link, often downplaying or simplifying the internal cognitive or biological processes represented by 'O' (Organism).

Conclusion

Based on the analysis, statements (b), (c), and (d) accurately describe characteristics of the mechanistic view of motivation, emphasizing learned S-R connections, reinforcement history, and stimulus control.

Was this answer helpful?

Important Questions from Motivation

  1. Match List I with List Il related to content Theories of Motivation
    List I (Exponent)List II (Theory)
    (a) Abraham Maslow(i) Two-factor Theory
    (b) Herzberg(ii) Achievement Theory
    (c) Aldufer(iii) Need Hierarchy Theory
    (d) Mcclelland(iv) ERG Theory
  2. Which of the following sequence is correct in case of steps in a goal-setting program for students ?
  3. According to self-determination theory ______ and _____ form the basis for intrinsic motivation.
  4. Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer by choosing from the codes given below : ​ 

    List – I
    (Concept)
    List – II
    (Explanation)
    a. Fixed Action Patterni. When two incompatible response tendencies are simultaneously aroused, the organisms may display behaviours that appear to be irrelevant to the situation.
    b. Displacement Activityii. Highly stereotyped responses that are assumed to be genetically programmed reactions that occur in the presence of a particular ‘sign’ stimulus.
    c. Hedonic Biasiii. A state in which a person performs an action because the act itself is satisfying or rewarding internally.
    d. Intrinsic motivation iv. Tendency to take more credit for success than to take responsibility for failure.
  5. McClelland’s theory basically focuses on _____ needs whilst Maslow’s theory focuses on _____ needs.
Need Expert Advice?

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App