Question

For each incorrect answer choice, explain exactly why it is an incorrect answer to the question. (2-3 sentences explain why its wrong)

Question: In Atkinson’s approach to achievement motivation (Ts = Ms x Ps x Is), incentive value for a particular achievement is smallest when:

WRONG        A.) the chances of success are moderate

CORRECT    B.) the chances of success are very large

WRONG        C.) the chances of success are very small

WRONG       D.) the achievement task is not related to an individual’s personal goals

Answer 1

Incentive value is the pleasure involved in the performance of particular behavior, that serves as a motivation to do a certain action.

Incentive value is indirectly proportional to the chances of success. If the chances of success are moderate, the value the person gives to the incentive has to be moderate too. If the chances of success in a task is very small or low then the incentive should be big enough to keep the person motivated to achieve it. Also, an incentive is something which the person finds pleasurable or motivating. If it is totally unrelated to the person, then the person would not bother to put efforts to achieve success. Say for example, If the incentive is hair straightener, a man would definitely not get motivated by it. Instead for him, the incentives would be bikes, video games etc.

Answer 2

In Atkinson’s approach to achievement motivation (Ts = Ms x Ps x Is), incentive value for a particular achievement is smallest when:

C.) the chances of success are very small (As the incentive value related to the success in the task)