Question

Discuss frustrations and conflicts as motives.

Hint:

In {Approach-Avoidance} conflicts, the tendency to avoid the goal grows stronger as you get closer to it!

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
While most motives are positive goals, frustration and conflict are states of tension that arise when goal-directed behavior is blocked or confused.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Frustration: Occurs when an obstacle prevents an individual from reaching a desired goal. It acts as a motive by creating an unpleasant state of tension that drives the person to either overcome the obstacle, find a substitute goal, or resort to aggression/defense mechanisms.
2. Conflict: Occurs when two or more incompatible motives or goals exist simultaneously. Types include: - Approach-Approach: Choosing between two desirable goals. - Avoidance-Avoidance: Choosing between two undesirable tasks. - Approach-Avoidance: A single goal has both positive and negative aspects.
3. As Motives: Both states force the individual to make decisions, adapt, and seek homeostasis (balance), thus "motivating" behavior.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Frustrations and conflicts are "avoidance motives" that push an individual to act to reduce psychological discomfort.