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Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology

Conative Processes

Evidence-informed definition Updated April 24, 2026 How to cite this entry

Conative processes refer to mental activities underpinning conscious, goal-directed behavior. They include intention, desire, will, and striving and represent the motivational aspect of the mind. these are one of the three components of the previously mentioned three-part categorization of psychological processes (along with affective and cognitive processes).

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Written by Ephi Lu
Reviewed by CNP Encyclopedia Editorial Board
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Ephi Lu. (2026). Conative Processes. In Encyclopedia of Nutritional Psychology. The Center for Nutritional Psychology.

https://www.nutritional-psychology.org/encyclopedia/conative-processes-2/
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