Earning your degree takes dedication, commitment, and time. The motivation that drives you through the tough times and keeps you focused is the foundation for your commitment. Discuss whether your motivations for striving are intrinsic, introjected, identified, or extrinsic. Do you believe your goal of earning a degree is an approach goal or an avoidant goal? Explain your answer.
The question is essentially asking you why you are taking college classes. Do you want the positive reinforcement of earning a degree? Or are you avoiding growing up and getting a job?
Only YOU can answer these questions.
To understand the motivations behind your goal of earning a degree, we can look at different types of motivation and goal orientation. Let's break it down:
1. Intrinsic Motivation: This refers to being driven by internal factors, such as personal enjoyment, interest, or the desire for self-improvement. If your motivation for striving to earn a degree comes from a genuine passion for learning, personal growth, or a desire to acquire knowledge, then your motivation would be intrinsic.
2. Introjected Motivation: This type of motivation is characterized by internal pressure or expectations. It occurs when you strive for a goal to avoid guilt, shame, or to maintain self-esteem. For example, if you are pursuing a degree to fulfill societal or familial expectations, or to prove something to yourself or others, then your motivation could be described as introjected.
3. Identified Motivation: This type of motivation involves recognizing the personal value and importance of a goal. It occurs when you align your aspirations with your values, interests, or long-term life goals. If you feel that earning a degree is an essential step towards achieving your personal or professional aspirations, it can be considered as identified motivation.
4. Extrinsic Motivation: This is driven by external factors such as rewards, recognition, or avoiding punishment. For example, if you pursue a degree solely for the purpose of obtaining a higher salary or career advancement, your motivation would be classified as extrinsic.
Now let's consider the goal orientation aspect:
Approach Goal: An approach goal refers to striving towards a positive outcome or achieving success. If your goal of earning a degree is primarily focused on acquiring knowledge, personal growth, or achieving personal fulfillment, it would align with an approach goal.
Avoidant Goal: An avoidant goal is centered around avoiding negative outcomes or failures. If your primary motivation is to avoid potential negative consequences, such as unemployment or societal disapproval, your goal of earning a degree would be classified as an avoidant goal.
Ultimately, only you can determine your motivations and goal orientation for earning a degree. Reflecting on your reasons for pursuing higher education and understanding whether your motivations are intrinsic, introjected, identified, or extrinsic can provide insight into your commitment and dedication to the goal.