Achievement Motivation Article Summary

Some people have a strong desire to achieve while others are not so enthusiastic about achievement. In his article, “Achievement Motivation”, David C. McClelland discusses human motives and the unique characteristics that surround the concept of motivation as related to one’s achievements. He challenges the idea of non-motivation and asserts that people can be differently motivated as a result of their surrounding environment.
According to McClelland, there are certain needs that are learned and socially developed as the individual interacts with the environment. McClelland classifies those needs into three areas: the need for achievement, the need for power, and the need for affiliation. McClelland also discusses the different categories related to each type of motivation and the effect that the traits can have on the economic stability of people, business and entire countries.
In addition, McClelland ascertains that levels of motivation can be measured using a method, which determines a person’s need for achievement, which McClelland calls “n Ach”. He explains the use of the tool as it relates to personal behaviors and drivers; and explains the contrasts of motivations, comparing those who seek power to those who seek achievement.
McClelland further explains the methods of increasing a person’s n Ach score by utilizing a training program. The training program consisted of four components: Teaching individuals how to act like they had a high need for achievement, helping them to make realistic goals, providing personal individual insight, and discussing experiences in group settings. McClelland also provides statistical data to support the premise of such training and also that illustrates the influence that each individual’s environment, society and culture can have on the continued success of the individual.