Glossary / Lexicon

Acquired drive refers to the drive that is learned, not innate. Fear is an example of an acquired drive.

In psychology, acquired drive refers to a learned motivation or desire to engage in certain behaviors or activities. It is also known as secondary drive or learned drive. Acquired drive is based on experience, whereas primary drives are innate and necessary for survival.

Examples of acquired drive include:

1. Money: Many people work hard to earn money to buy the things they want or need, such as a house, car, or vacation. The desire for money is a learned drive that is acquired through experiences and the rewards associated with earning money.

2. Social status: People often strive to achieve a higher social status or gain recognition for their accomplishments. This drive is acquired through social experiences and the rewards associated with social recognition.

3. Academic achievement: Students may have a drive to excel academically and achieve good grades. This drive is acquired through the experience of being rewarded for good grades and the social recognition that comes with academic success.

4. Competition: Many people have a drive to compete and win, whether it be in sports, business, or other areas. This drive is acquired through experiences of competition and the rewards associated with winning.

5. Power: Some people have a drive for power, such as political or business leaders. This drive is acquired through experiences of being in positions of authority and the rewards associated with having power.

Similar concepts to acquired drive include incentive motivation, which refers to the motivation to engage in behaviors based on the anticipated rewards or consequences. Incentive motivation is a form of acquired drive, as it is learned through experiences of being rewarded or punished for certain behaviors.

Another similar concept is the concept of reinforcement, which refers to the process of strengthening a behavior by rewarding or punishing it. Acquired drive is closely related to reinforcement, as it is based on the experience of being rewarded for certain behaviors.

Overall, acquired drive is an important concept in psychology as it helps explain why people engage in certain behaviors and activities. By understanding the learned motivations behind people's behaviors, psychologists can develop effective strategies to promote positive behaviors and reduce negative ones.

Summary

In psychology, the term 'acquired drive' refers to a type of motivation that is learned or developed through experiences and reinforcement. Unlike innate drives that are biologically determined, acquired drives are shaped by environmental factors and personal experiences. These drives can include goals, desires, and values that have been internalized over time. Acquired drives can be influenced by cultural norms, social expectations, and individual goals. They play a significant role in guiding behavior and decision-making in everyday life.

--