Skip to main content
We’re so back. See what’s new for the 2026-2027 school year →
The new Teacher Workspace is here. Your first 3 assignments are free. Try it →

🧠ap psychology review

Rotter's expectancy theory in AP Psychology

Written by the Fiveable Content Team
Verified for the 2027 exam
Verified for the 2027 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team

Definition

Rotter's expectancy theory is a psychological framework that focuses on how people's beliefs about the outcomes of their actions influence their behavior. It suggests that individuals are more likely to engage in behaviors they believe will lead to positive outcomes and avoid behaviors they believe will lead to negative outcomes.

Rotter's expectancy theory cheat sheet for homework

visual study aid

"Rotter's expectancy theory" also found in:

Keep studying AP Psychology

Connect this key term to the AP exam workflow: review the course, practice questions, and check related study tools.

AP Psychology hub

Review units, study guides, and course resources.

AP-style practice

Check this vocabulary in multiple-choice context.

FRQ practice

Apply key concepts in written AP responses.

Score calculator

Estimate the exam score you are working toward.

Cheatsheets

Review the highest-yield facts before practice.

Practice exam

Put the full course together before test day.