Motivation to engage in a given behavior can come from internal and/or external factors. Multiple theories have been put forward regarding motivation.

More biologically oriented theories deal with the ways that instincts and the need to maintain bodily homeostasis motivate behavior. Bandura postulated that our sense of self-efficacy motivates behaviors, and there are a number of theories that focus on a variety of social motives.

emotion — subjective state of being often described as feelings. motivation — wants or needs that direct behavior toward some goal. instinct — species-specific pattern of behavior that is unlearned. hierarchy of needs — spectrum of needs ranging from basic biological needs to social needs to self-actualization.