An instructor notices that a student rarely completes homework assignments. The student has explained that their living situation results in very little sleep, so homework is not a priority. Which person would explain the behavior in this scenario in terms of unmet lower-order motivations hindering higher-order motivations?

Rationale

Abraham Maslow would explain the behavior in this scenario in terms of unmet lower-order motivations hindering higher-order motivations.

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs suggests that basic physiological needs, such as sleep, must be met before individuals can focus on higher-order needs like academic achievement. In this case, the student's lack of sleep directly impacts their ability to prioritize homework, illustrating how unmet lower-order needs can obstruct the pursuit of higher-order goals.

A (Gordon Allport) YOUR ANSWER

Allport's theories focus on personality traits and the uniqueness of individuals rather than a hierarchy of needs. He emphasized the importance of individual differences and personal dispositions in explaining behavior, which does not directly address how unmet basic needs might impede other motivations, as in the case of the student's homework completion.

B (Erik Erikson) YOUR ANSWER

Erikson's psychosocial development theory outlines stages of identity and social development throughout the lifespan. While his framework addresses motivations related to social relationships and personal identity, it does not specifically correlate unmet basic needs with the hindrance of higher-order motivations, making it less applicable to the scenario presented.

C (George Kelly) YOUR ANSWER

Kelly is known for his Personal Construct Theory, which emphasizes how individuals interpret their experiences through cognitive frameworks. While this theory explores how personal perceptions shape behavior, it does not adequately explain the impact of unmet physiological needs on motivation, as highlighted in the student's situation regarding sleep and homework.

D (Abraham Maslow) CORRECT

Maslow's framework clearly illustrates how unmet lower-order needs, such as physiological necessities, can hinder individuals from achieving higher-order motivations, like completing homework. The student's lack of sufficient sleep exemplifies how basic needs must be satisfied to allow for focus on academic responsibilities.

Conclusion

In understanding the student's behavior of not completing homework, Maslow's theory provides a compelling explanation. His emphasis on the necessity of meeting lower-order needs before pursuing higher-order motivations clarifies why the student's living situation, resulting in inadequate sleep, directly affects their academic performance. This highlights the importance of addressing basic needs to facilitate overall motivation and achievement.

Abraham Maslow would explain the behavior in this scenario in terms of unmet lower-order motivations hindering higher-order motivations.

Related Questions

Related Quizzes

How familiar were you with this question?

Report an Issue

Rate this Practice Test