Which motive was reported for selecting psychology as a major?

• A. I have a very strong interest in the subject matter of psychology
• B. I chose it for job security
• C. I chose it because it was recommended by a counselor
• D. I chose it because it was the easiest major

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is intrinsic motivation—the personal, internal interest in the subject that leads you to choose a field because you genuinely enjoy it. When someone reports a very strong interest in psychology, that shows they’re drawn to the material for its own sake, which is the strongest predictor of staying with the major, engaging deeply, and persisting through challenges.

Choosing psychology for job security, on the other hand, reflects a practical or external reason, not a connection to the subject itself. Counseling recommendations can be helpful, but they’re an external influence rather than a personal passion. Choosing it because it’s the easiest major is also driven by convenience rather than genuine interest, and is less likely to sustain long-term commitment.

So the best answer matches a true, internal interest in psychology, which supports continued study and engagement.