Which description matches a motivation pattern focused on avoiding failure rather than achieving success?

Which description matches a motivation pattern focused on avoiding failure rather than achieving success?

• A. Avoidance motivation
• B. Time-bound
• C. Intrinsic motivation
• D. Motivation

Answer: (A)

Avoidance motivation describes behaving to prevent negative outcomes rather than striving for positive ones. This pattern focuses on not failing or avoiding punishment, which can lead to cautious, risk-averse behavior in sport or study. For example, an athlete might play it safe to avoid errors rather than taking a challenging move to win, and a student might study primarily to avoid failure instead of seeking mastery or enjoyment in the subject. Time-bound refers to deadlines or time limits, not a type of motivational pattern. Intrinsic motivation is about doing something for its own sake, due to interest or enjoyment, not the fear of failing. Motivation in general is too broad and not descriptive of this avoidance-focused pattern. Therefore, the description that fits the question is avoidance motivation.

Avoidance motivation describes behaving to prevent negative outcomes rather than striving for positive ones. This pattern focuses on not failing or avoiding punishment, which can lead to cautious, risk-averse behavior in sport or study. For example, an athlete might play it safe to avoid errors rather than taking a challenging move to win, and a student might study primarily to avoid failure instead of seeking mastery or enjoyment in the subject. Time-bound refers to deadlines or time limits, not a type of motivational pattern. Intrinsic motivation is about doing something for its own sake, due to interest or enjoyment, not the fear of failing. Motivation in general is too broad and not descriptive of this avoidance-focused pattern. Therefore, the description that fits the question is avoidance motivation.