Identifying Alex's Motivational Type

Motivation and identity are crucial aspects of psychological development. Consider the case of a college student named Alex, who is pursuing a degree in biology with aspirations of becoming a physician. Despite his passion for the subject, Alex often feels uncertain about his future career. He struggles with feelings of overwhelm and questions if he is capable enough to succeed in medical school.

Motivational theories suggest that numerous factors influence an individual's drive to achieve their goals. Among them, intrinsic motivation—which is driven by personal satisfaction and interest in the task—often leads to greater academic success. In contrast, extrinsic motivation—derived from external rewards such as praise or approval—can also play a role but may not be as effective in fostering genuine interest.

Based on this scenario, what type of motivation is primarily influencing Alex’s educational journey?