One of the earliest approaches to motivation focused on

• A. the need for achievement.
• B. biologically determined patterns of behavior.
• C. universal needs that help people gain a complete sense of self.
• D. performance and mastery goals.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Begin by understanding the concept of motivation in psychology, which refers to the processes that initiate, guide, and maintain goal-oriented behaviors.
2. Explore the 'need for achievement' as a specific type of motivation, which is the drive to excel, achieve in relation to a set of standards, and strive to succeed.
3. Consider the historical context of motivation theories, such as the instinct theory, which suggests that certain behaviors are biologically determined and innate.
4. Examine the concept of 'universal needs' in the context of self-determination theory, which posits that people have inherent psychological needs that are essential for psychological growth and well-being.
5. Differentiate between 'performance goals' and 'mastery goals' in achievement motivation, where performance goals focus on demonstrating ability relative to others, and mastery goals focus on developing competence and understanding.