The Sense of the Worthy as a Motivation for Studying: The Case of the Yeshiva |
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Authors: | Mordecai Nisan Yishai Shalif |
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Institution: | (1) The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, School of Education, Jerusalem, Israel |
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Abstract: | This paper describes a type of motivation for studying that has not been accorded sufficient psychological consideration -
namely, motivation based on belief in the worthiness of the subject matter. This sort of motivation is distinguished from
both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation. It is exemplified by the motivation for studying at the Yeshiva, an institution in
which the sense of the worthy is explicitly highlighted. Interviews with highly motivated Yeshiva students reveal that the
sense of the worthy is central to them and also constitutes an anchor to other types of motivations for studying. We point
out two factors that enhance the effect of the sense of the worthy at the Yeshiva - its ethical orientation and its being
a total institution. The interviews suggest that being motivated by the sense of the worthy does not lessen the students’
feelings of autonomy or their intrinsic motivation. We suggest two intervening variables between having a sense of the worthy
and acting accordingly - the associated feelings and the individual’s sense of identity. By examining two important motivations
for studying - the needs for achievement and self-actualization - we point out the influence of culture on the expression
of these needs. Finally, we suggest that the sense of the worthy can and should serve as an important motivational factor
in liberal education as well. |
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Keywords: | Normative motivation sense of the worthy motivation for learning Yeshiva personal identity value of studying ’ matmidim’ self-regulation sense of obligation study of valued texts |
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