Motivated Social Perception

This insightful volume, Motivated Social Perception, explores how motivation influences social perception, bridging two distinct research traditions in the field.

The Motivated Social Perception book is the 9th installment in the Ontario Symposium series, focusing on the intricate relationship between motivation and social perception. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, researchers, and advanced students who are keen to delve into this fascinating area of study. This volume brings together leading experts who present cutting-edge research that sheds light on how motivation shapes the way individuals perceive themselves and others in social contexts.

In recent years, two distinct traditions have emerged in the study of motivated social perception. The first tradition emphasizes the role of maintaining a positive self-concept, illustrating how this motivation can significantly influence social perception. The second tradition highlights the impact of personal goals on self- and other-perception. Motivated Social Perception effectively bridges these two approaches, offering insights into their overlaps and integrations. By doing so, the book enhances our understanding of the complex dynamics at play in social cognition.

Chapters within Motivated Social Perception explore a variety of topics, including the influence of motivation on stereotypes, self-affirmation in evaluations, and the nuances of self-esteem. Additionally, it investigates the foundational aspects of basic goals and extends self-regulatory theory. This comprehensive approach makes the book an essential read for anyone interested in the psychological processes underlying social perception and cognition.