Exploring Well-Being: The Engine Model, Broaden and Build Theory, and Shifting Perspectives on Motivation

QUESTION

1. Describe the components of the engine model of well-being and/or,
2. Describe the broaden and build theory. In your answer, including how it might apply to children or adults and/or,
3. The textbook authors note that “researchers have tended to speak less about intrinsic motivation, preferring to see motivation as either ‘controlled’ or ‘autonomous.'” Define these three terms in light of your Journey and explain why there has been a shift in focus.

ANSWER

 Exploring Well-Being: The Engine Model, Broaden and Build Theory, and Shifting Perspectives on Motivation

Introduction

Understanding well-being and motivation is essential for personal growth, development, and overall life satisfaction. This essay delves into three key concepts: the engine model of well-being, the broaden and build theory, and the shift in focus from intrinsic motivation to controlled and autonomous motivation. We will explore how these concepts apply to individuals, including children and adults, and highlight the implications of these theories for understanding and promoting well-being.

The Engine Model of Well-Being

The engine model of well-being, developed by Seligman, describes five components that contribute to flourishing and optimal functioning: Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment (PERMA). Each component plays a unique role in enhancing well-being.

Positive Emotions: Positive emotions, such as joy, gratitude, and contentment, promote psychological well-being and resilience. These emotions broaden individuals’ cognitive and emotional repertoire, enabling them to build resources and effectively cope with challenges.

Engagement: Engagement refers to being fully absorbed in activities that align with one’s strengths and interests. When individuals experience a state of flow, characterized by intense focus and enjoyment, they are likely to experience higher levels of well-being.

Relationships: Positive social connections and supportive relationships are crucial for well-being. High-quality relationships provide emotional support, companionship, and a sense of belonging, contributing to overall life satisfaction and happiness.

Meaning: Finding meaning and purpose in life involves pursuing activities that align with one’s values and beliefs. Engaging in activities that transcend personal interests and contribute to something larger than oneself fosters a sense of fulfillment and well-being.

Accomplishment: Accomplishment entails setting and achieving meaningful goals, leading to a sense of competence, mastery, and self-efficacy. Accomplishments contribute to self-esteem and well-being by providing a sense of purpose and progress.

These components of the engine model apply to both children and adults, as they are fundamental to promoting well-being across the lifespan.

The Broaden and Build Theory

The broaden and build theory, developed by Fredrickson, posits that positive emotions broaden individuals’ thought-action repertoires, leading to enhanced well-being and personal growth. Positive emotions broaden individuals’ perspectives, allowing them to see a wider range of possibilities and develop new skills and resources.

This theory suggests that positive emotions not only enhance immediate well-being but also contribute to long-term resilience, physical health, and cognitive functioning. By broadening individuals’ outlook and building psychological resources, positive emotions facilitate adaptive coping strategies and foster psychological resilience in the face of adversity.

The broaden and build theory applies to both children and adults, emphasizing the importance of cultivating positive emotions and experiences. In children, positive emotions contribute to healthy socio-emotional development, resilience, and the acquisition of vital social skills. For adults, positive emotions are associated with improved physical health, better interpersonal relationships, and increased productivity.

 Shifting Perspectives on Motivation

Traditionally, researchers classified motivation as either intrinsic or extrinsic. However, a shift in focus has occurred, and researchers now distinguish between controlled and autonomous motivation.

Intrinsic motivation refers to engaging in an activity for its inherent satisfaction and personal enjoyment. Extrinsic motivation, on the other hand, involves engaging in an activity to obtain external rewards or avoid punishments. Controlled motivation represents a form of extrinsic motivation driven by external demands or pressures. In contrast, autonomous motivation reflects engagement in activities that align with personal values, interests, and goals.

The shift in focus from intrinsic motivation to controlled and autonomous motivation has occurred because researchers recognized the complexity of motivation. The understanding that motivation exists on a continuum, ranging from more controlled to more autonomous, acknowledges that external and internal factors can coexist and interact in shaping individuals’ motivation.

This shift in perspective allows researchers to explore the multifaceted nature of motivation and its implications for well-being, performance, and overall satisfaction. By examining the interplay between controlled and autonomous motivation, researchers gain a more nuanced understanding of how motivation influences behavior and outcomes.

Conclusion

Understanding the engine model of well-being, the broaden and build theory, and the shift in perspectives on motivation provides valuable insights into fostering personal well-being and growth. These concepts apply to individuals across different stages of life, including children and adults, and emphasize the significance of positive emotions, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment in promoting optimal functioning. By acknowledging the complex nature of motivation and recognizing the interplay between controlled and autonomous motivation, researchers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of human motivation and its impact on well-being.