A Control-Value Approach to Affective Growth

Control-value theory (CVT) can be used to understand and promote affective growth. The theory explains how emotion and motivation are shaped by individual appraisals of control and value as well as situational conditions, and how all three factors impact thought, action, and performance. Emotions and motivation are linked with these antecedents (control, value) and outcomes by reciprocal effects over time, which opens up various possibilities to manage emotions and motivate people. As the author of this essay explains, according to CVT, four major motivation strategies include modifying appraisals, enhancing personal competencies, changing emotional and motivational reactions, and changing situational factors.