Date of Award

Spring 5-10-2025

Document Type

Honors Thesis

Department/Major

Psychology

First Advisor

Harry Freeman

Second Advisor

Douglas Peterson

Third Advisor

Michael Granaas

Keywords

Attributional Theory of Motivation, Locus of Control, Stability, Controllability, Mini Theories, Extrinsic Motivation, Intrinsic Motivation

Abstract

This work aims to collate literature pertaining to the mini theory of the Attributional Theory of Motivation, created by Bernard Weiner in the 1970s. The goal of this review is to explain the theory as a whole, the strengths and weaknesses, as well as how we use and misuse the theory. By explaining certain aspects of the theory that have impacted education, it is possible to understand why it can be beneficial, especially in school settings, and how to use it more effectively. We as humans innately tend to attribute the outcomes of our behaviors to something. This theory aims to explain how these attributions can affect motivation, and inherently how we can increase or decrease motivation towards certain behaviors in ourselves and others. Currently, in the educational system, there are many misconceptions about motivation, and this review aims to discuss those and give ideas of other possible solutions to motivational situations.

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