Control in Motivation Pt2
There is a fine line to be drawn between responsibility and blame.
Skinner (1995) proposes a ‘competence system’ model. We include this here, rather than in the âCompetenceâ section as it comprises the various parts that help to explain control. This model analyses the relationship between the components agent (the person), means (behaviour) and ends (outcomes) in conjunction with belief systems. There are various combinations of these factors:
Agent, means and capacity beliefs: belief that the person has the means to produce the desired behaviour (but not necessarily an outcome), ie confidence in the process. Means, ends and strategy beliefs: belief that adopting a particular strategy will produce the expected outcome. Agent, ends and control beliefs: belief that the self can control the outcome. This involves both capacity and strategy beliefs.
