Typing Template for APA Papers: A Sample of Proper APA Fifth Edition Formatting
Deborah DiBerardino
Grand Canyon University: Educational Psychology EDU 313N
Amy Wilkinson
August 5, 2012
Comparison of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs with Skinners Behaviorist Theory The definition of motivation according to Dictionary.com is: “The reason or reasons one has for acting or behaving in a particular way; the general desire or willingness of someone to do something.” Where it gets confusing is in the reason for behaving a certain way. What is it that causes a person to perform a task? Is it something that comes from deep inside of the person or is it a means to an end a reward? Let’s delve into some theories that can show possible reasons people are motivated.
Comparison Chart: Maslow / Skinner
| |Maslow’s Theory |B. F. Skinner’s Theory |
| |Motivation begins in students when their basic|Motivation derives from an individual’s behavior; it is a |
| |needs are met as in Maslow’s Hierarchy moving |function of its consequences. It is based simply on the |
|Motivation: |from physiological needs to |“law of effect” positive consequences begets positive |
| |self-actualization. |actions, behavior will be repeated. |
| |Motivation is Intrinsic |Whereas, negative consequences begets negative results and|
| | |will not be repeated. |
|
References: Heylighen, Francis (1992) A Cognitive-systemic Reconstruction of Maslow’s Theory of Self- Actualization. Behavioral Science, Volume 37. http://pespmc1.vub.ac.be/Papers/Maslow.pdf Johnson, Walter. Skinner’s Behavioral Theory, (n.d.) Retrieved August 3, 2012 from: http://www.ehow.com/about_5498343_skinner_s-behavioural-theory.html#ixzz22iwdvqgB Maslow 's Hierarchy of Needs. (n.d.), Father of Modern Management. Retrieved on August 2, 2012 from http://www.abraham-maslow.com/m_motivation/Hierarchy_of_Needs.asp Teacher’s Toolbox - Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs (2001) Mediamerge Ltd. Retrieved August 1, 2012 http://www.teacherstoolbox.co.uk/T_maslow.html