Conflict of Motivation in Career Choices

As individuals navigate their early adulthood, the interplay between motivation and identity plays a pivotal role in shaping their future trajectories. Sarah, a psychology undergraduate, is at a crossroads in her academic journey. Having excelled in her studies, she is now contemplating whether to pursue further education in clinical psychology or to explore a career in organizational psychology, a field that offers her a substantial salary but less personal fulfillment. Sarah's choice reflects a deeper conflict between her intrinsic motivators—her passion for helping individuals—and her extrinsic motivators—societal expectations and financial stability. This tension poses significant questions about how motivation influences identity formation during critical decision-making periods.
Given this context, which of the following theories best explains Sarah's experienced conflict regarding her educational and career choices?