ExpectancyValue

Expectancy-value theory is a framework in psychology and education that explains how individuals’ motivation to engage in a task and their subsequent persistence are influenced by two core components: expectancy and value. The expectancy component represents beliefs about how likely it is that one can succeed at the task, often interpreted as self-efficacy or probability of success given effort. The value component captures the usefulness, importance, intrinsic interest, or attainment associated with the task. In many formulations, behavior is modeled as a function of expectancy multiplied by value, with additional costs or barriers considered.

The theory has been applied across domains such as education, health behavior, sports, and work. In educational settings, it helps explain why students choose certain subjects, how hard they try, and how long they persist in the face of difficulty. Researchers measure expectancy for success and task value through questionnaires, and interventions often aim to raise belief in success or increase the perceived value of the task.

Critiques include assumptions of rational weighting and measurement challenges. Critics also note cultural and contextual factors that can alter how expectancy and value influence choice. Variants of the theory incorporate broader determinants such as social support, environmental constraints, and perceived costs, and some integrate constructs like self-regulated learning and goal orientation.

See also: expected value (in probability), motivation theory, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, self-efficacy, utility theory.