Reinforcement Theory
Assignment 2: Applying Theories of Motivation to Situations
Over the decades, numerous theories of motivation have been developed. Most of the older theories have been shown to not be particularly valid and, therefore, not good predictors of motivational force. More contemporary theories can explain the motivational force in particular situations well. Therefore, industrial/organizational (I/O) psychologists must understand which theory best predicts/clarifies human motivation based on the particulars of the situation.
For this assignment, the following contemporary theories are considered:
- Self-Determination Theory/Cognitive Evaluation Theory
- Goal-Setting Theory
- Self-Efficacy Theory
- Reinforcement Theory
- Equity Theory/Organizational Justice Theory
- Expectancy Theory
Using the Argosy University online library resources, the readings for this module, and the Internet, review these contemporary theories of motivation. Then, correctly apply the appropriate theory to the following two scenarios:
- A professional working for a major corporation is assigned goals each quarter. If all goals are achieved, a substantial bonus is paid. One quarter, workers review their new goals and make the determination that they are not likely to achieve all the goals.
- A person works in a department with eight coworkers, and they all do the same job. They believe that one worker (who they know well) is receiving more perks and rewards than they are for the same amount and quality of work.
For each scenario:
- State the selected theory of motivation that best applies to that scenario.
- Summarize the theory chosen.
- Explain how the theory selected explains/predicts motivational force.
Your final product should be a 3- to 4-page Microsoft Word document and should use a minimum of 3 sources from professional literature. Professional literature may include the Argosy University online library resources, relevant textbooks, peer-reviewed journal articles, and websites created by professional organizations, agencies, or institutions (.edu, .org, and .gov).
Be sure you write in a clear, concise, and organized manner; demonstrate ethical scholarship in accurate representation and attribution of sources; and display accurate spelling, grammar, and punctuation.
All written assignments and responses should follow APA rules for attributing sources.