ABSTRACT
The sensitivity theory of motivation analyzes complex human behavior into 16 elemental, motivational components. For example, I recently (Reiss, 2000) provided a theoretical analysis of how five meaningful areas of human life (romantic relationships, careers, parenting, sports, and spirituality) can satisfy all or nearly all of the 16 desires. The model also has been related to psychopathology (Reiss & Havercamp, 1996), applied behavior analysis (Reiss & Havercamp, 1997), and rare developmental disorders of genetic origin (Dykens & Rosner, 1999). In other words, the theoretical work has a potentially broad range of application for the underlying concepts. Although it seems unlikely that all or even most of the applications will be proved valid, at this point the theory is interesting for its heuristic value in putting forth new ideas and in stimulating new research. In this chapter, we will review the basic tenets of the model and take a look at three implications for research on mental retardation and developmental disabilities. The implications are self-determination, cooperative living, and dual diagnosis.
