PSYC FPX 3770 Assessment 4 Depression and Goal-Directed Motivation

Student Name

Capella University

PSYC FPX 3770 Psychology of Human Motivation and Performance

Prof. Name:

Date

Emotions and Motivation

Motivation, which serves as a precursor to action, can be influenced by a variety of factors, both positively and negatively. Experiences, whether favorable or unfavorable, can shape motivation, leading individuals to either pursue desired outcomes or avoid negative stimuli. For example, substances such as drugs and experiences like sexual activity can trigger the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, resulting in feelings of pleasure and euphoria. These experiences condition individuals to seek further exposure to stimuli associated with these positive feelings. Moreover, anticipated outcomes, even if not yet realized, can significantly affect motivation. Emotions, which are closely linked to motivation, complicate this relationship, making it difficult to determine the exact influence of a specific emotion on motivation (Deckers, 2018).

Emotions arise from perceived or experienced outcomes and often coexist or contrast with one another. Positive emotions, such as feelings of comfort and security, can enhance motivation to engage in challenging tasks in pursuit of rewards or relaxation. In contrast, the effects of negative emotions on motivation are complex. While threatening stimuli can positively influence motivation by alerting individuals to potential dangers, emotions like anxiety and panic can reduce motivation and negatively impact overall quality of life. Prolonged experiences of worry and fear have been associated with adverse health effects and diminished positive social interactions (Deckers, 2018).

Depression and Motivation

Depression, characterized by persistent feelings of sadness and a lack of interest in life events, manifests differently in each individual but consistently impacts motivation (Hysenbegasi, Hass, & Rowland, 2005). Sadness, a common emotion linked to depression, can indicate a need for assistance but often results in decreased motivation and engagement with life. Individuals suffering from depression may find it challenging to perform daily tasks such as personal hygiene, household chores, and financial management. In academic environments, depression can significantly affect performance due to its influence on cognitive function and task prioritization (Deckers, 2018).

Research indicates that depression can distort individuals’ perceptions of themselves and their experiences, leading to biases such as the “self-positivity bias” (Takano et al., 2016). This bias involves attributing positive events to external factors while internalizing negative events. Studies have demonstrated that individuals with depression show a reduced preference for positive self-relevant information, highlighting the cognitive distortions associated with the condition (Takano et al., 2016).

Current Research Findings

A study conducted in 2016 examined the self-positivity bias among individuals with depression, revealing a decreased preference for positive self-relevant information in these individuals (Takano et al., 2016). Another study from 2005 investigated the impact of depression on academic productivity, finding a negative correlation between depression and GPA among university students (Hysenbegasi, Hass, & Rowland, 2005). Treatment for depressive symptoms was linked to a reduction in academic decline, underscoring the importance of mental health interventions for academic success (Hysenbegasi, Hass, & Rowland, 2005).

Conclusion

Depression presents significant challenges, particularly in academic settings where motivation and drive are crucial for success. Understanding the relationship between depression, motivation, and academic performance is essential for developing effective intervention strategies. Providing accessible mental health support and counseling services on campuses can help alleviate the impact of depression on student success (Deckers, 2018; Hysenbegasi, Hass, & Rowland, 2005; Takano et al., 2016).

References

Deckers, L. (2018). Motivation: Biological, psychological, and environmental. ProQuest Ebook Central.

Hysenbegasi, A., Hass, S. L., & Rowland, C. R. (2005). The impact of depression on the academic productivity of university students. Journal of Mental Health Policy and Economics, 8(3), 145.