Motivational Approaches to the Study of Political Leadership

In: Statsvetenskaplig tidskrift, Band 104, Heft 2, S. 115-137

Abstract

We study motivational factors in decision making in order to interpret, describe, & explain observed changes in individual behavior. Collective motivation is motivation of individuals in group situations, crowds, & other collective settings. Motivation is typically inferred, or attributed, rather than measured directly. The focus is on the result of changes in political behavior in reaction to internal &/or external stimuli. Thus it is also important to understand that motivation is primarily a behavioral variable. If motives are fed on needs, man does not automatically turn to politics to satisfy his hunger, or such goals as respect, welfare, security, income, deference, or love. It is far more likely that the citizen will go to the food market, attempt a career in a dignified profession, increase his load & quality of work, take insurances, & so on. Important concepts of cognitive motivation theory can be found in expectancy value theory, incentive motivation theory, cognitive dissonance theory, & social learning theory. Empirically, motivation research with political leaders has followed the paths indicated by David McClelland & David Winter in the 1950s & the 1960s, with a focus on achievement, affiliation, & power motivation. Achievement motivation comprises the desire or drive to excel in whatever one does. It is the inner urge to do things better & better or more & more efficiently than before, to strive constantly to achieve self-set standards. Affiliation motivated people enter into relationships for the sake of the relationships themselves, & not primarily for economic gain or political influence. Power motivation signifies a drive to influence & have impact on others; it urges one to acquire prestige &/or control over others. The pattern of these motivations can provide important explanations of the behavior of political leaders. 4 Figures, 75 References. Adapted from the source document.