Achievement motivation

Achievement motivation may be characterized by the tendency of individuals to maintain and increase proficiency in all areas in which a standard of quality is taken as binding. The strength of such motivation varies from individual to individual, but remains relatively constant for a given individual. This seems to be dependent on early childhood experiences, particularly the way in which a child learns independence. Success motivation is also closely correlated, with failure-motivated individuals having unrealistically high or low levels of aspiration and willingness to take risks. Achievement motivation has been shown to be significant for the process of economic development; and programmes have been developed to alter motivation in this connection.