Most of Dakota's friends look at him with respect. He is self-aware, self-accepting, and open. He is spontaneous and caring, and does not worry about other people's opinions. According to Maslow, it is likely that Dakota is motivated by:

A. the need to reinforce others. B. the need for self-actualization. C. operant conditioning. D. unconscious needs.

According to Maslow, it is likely that Dakota is motivated by:

B. the need for self-actualization.

Explanation:

According to the theory developed by Abraham Maslow, we are motivated by our needs. Those needs range from the most basic ones to the "superior" ones, and we can only focus on the superior when the basic needs have been fulfilled. For instance, a person who is poor and has no food at home will only focus on being recognized by his peers when his need for money and food is taken care of. The hierarchy of the needs is known as Maslow's pyramid. Starting from the most basic need, it follows this sequence: physiological, safety, love/belonging, esteem, and self-actualization.

According to the description, Dakota is in the self-actualization stage. That would mean the other needs are taken care of, being duly supplied for. People who reach self-actualization accept themselves and others for who they are. They know how to deal with uncertainty, are spontaneous and have an unusual sense of humor, know how to establish satisfying interpersonal relationships etc. In essence, they are on the way to becoming the best version of themselves. According to Maslow, at least in 1970, only two percent of people would reach self-actualization.