What are the components of instincts according to William McDougall?

Which of the following was not a component of instincts, according to William McDougall?

a. Cognition

b. Learning

c. Emotion

d. Conation

Answer:

According to William McDougall, the option that was not a component of instincts is learning. Therefore, the correct option is B.

William McDougall believed that instincts were made up of three components: cognition, emotion, and conation. He did not consider learning to be a part of instincts because instincts are considered innate, unlearned patterns of behavior.

Cognition: This refers to the mental process of acquiring and processing knowledge and understanding through thought, experience, and senses. It plays a role in instincts as it helps an individual recognize specific situations that trigger instinctive behavior.

Emotion: Emotion is a complex state of feeling that results in physical and psychological changes that influence thought and behavior. In the context of instincts, emotions are often the driving force behind instinctive behaviors.

Conation: Conation refers to the aspect of mental processes that involves the drive or motivation to take action, including instinctual actions. It is an essential component of instincts as it provides the necessary motivation to carry out the instinctive behavior.

In summary, William McDougall believed that instincts consisted of cognition, emotion, and conation, but not learning. Hence, the correct answer is option B: Learning.