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Goal Theory of Motivation

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What are the major findings underlying the goal theory of motivation? How and why should an individual develop individual and work -oriented goals? Why are goals important in improving human performance?

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This solution identifies the major findings underlying the goal theory of motivation, how and why an individual should develop individual and work-oriented goals, and why goals are important in improving human performance. Links are also provided for further research.

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RESPONSE:

1. What are the major findings underlying the goal theory of motivation?

The underlying findings of the goal theory of motivation is that in order to direct ourselves we set ourselves goals that are:
· Clear (not vague) and understandable, so we know what to do and what not to do.
· Challenging, so we will be stimulated and not be bored.
· Achievable, so we are unlikely to fail.

If other people set our goals without our involvement, then we are much less likely to be motivated to work hard at it than if we feel we have set or directed the goal ourselves. Feedback is required for motivation to continue working on meeting our goals. For example, when we are working in the task, we need feedback so we can determine whether we are succeeding or whether we need to change direction. We find feedback (if it is sympathetically done) very encouraging and motivating. This includes feedback from ourselves; negative self-talk is just as de-motivating as negative comments from other people.

Theory suggests there are two types of goals - directional and accuracy of goals, which are important; depending on the type of goal we have, we will go about achieving it differently. For example, a ...

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