Wrapping up an exploration of the ABCs of behavior. Bottom line: humans are prediction machines. Behavior is goal-directed, which is another way of saying behavior anticipates a payoff. So what are these payoffs?
Most generally, pleasure or the avoidance of pain is the payoff. Pleasure and pain can be external or intrinsic to our actions. The payoff maybe simultaneous with a behavior or occur afterwards as a consequence. Sometimes simply doing something is the payoff, especially when coming after a period of indecision. Of course, the same behavior may have multiple potential payoffs: enjoyable in its own right, doubly so if applauded by others, triply so if it advances one's career.
Sometimes the payoff is avoiding bad things like feelings of failure, exclusion/rejection, incompetence or low social standing. The reward is relief: getting through without falling off an emotional cliff, surviving a potential disaster.
Other payoffs are more about approach than avoidance - more a matter of desire than fear or anxiety. Some examples:
- Sense of control, mastery, progress, accomplishment.
- Belonging, bonding, respect, status, power.
- Discovery, insight, beauty, learning, awe.
- Food, drink, sex, tactile pleasures.
- Moving gracefully, skillfully, forcefully, precisely.
- Exhilaration, flow, overcoming challenge, fun.
And let's not forget: giving, helping, protecting, nurturing, or otherwise contributing to another's well-being. Seeing the smile on their face.