Motivational Underpinnings of Utility in Decision Making: Decision Field Theory Analysis of Deprivation and Satiation by

Abstract The purpose of this chapter is to build a theory of decision- making,that attempts to identify some of the basic sources of subjective value or utility. In particular, we present a theory that formally describes how needs change over time as a function of external stimulation, and internal deprivation and consummation. Recent research demonstrating the influence of need states on decision- making is reviewed and earlier theoretical ideas on motivational mechanisms,are summarized. A new extension of a dynamic model of decision making, called decision field theory, is presented that incorporates a dynamic model of needs. This extension is then applied to research examining the influence of affect and emotion on decision- making. Finally, a preliminary sketch of the neuro-physiological substrate of decision field theory is proposed.