Jutta Heckhausen Book order

Motivation and Action gives an extensive and in-depth overview of the diverse lines of research in motivational psychology, in terms of its historical foundations, up-to-date conceptual developments, and empirical research. The major classes of motivated behavior are addressed and the critical processes involved in motivation and volition are discussed in detail. Different conceptual and empirical lines of research are integrated and analyzed as to the common issues and phenomena they address, thus providing a most useful guideline for understanding debates in current motivational, educational, and social psychology.

The life-span theory of control emphasizes the importance of regulating one's environment for adaptive functioning throughout life. It distinguishes between primary control, which affects the external world, and secondary control, which optimizes internal resources for effective action. The book presents a series of studies showcasing the diverse ways humans navigate developmental challenges across different ages and contexts. It offers valuable insights for researchers in social and developmental psychology, sociology, and anthropology, contributing to the understanding of human behavior and development.