1. the desire to perform well and be successful. In this sense, the term often is used synonymously with need for achievement.

2. the desire to overcome obstacles and master difficult challenges. High scorers in achievement motivation are likely to set higher standards and work with greater perseverance than equally gifted low scorers. David McClelland found a significant relationship between high achievement motivation and early independence in childhood; in addition, there is a positive correlation between high achievement motivation and actual achievement in later life. [first described by Henry Alexander Murray]