goal-directed behavior

n. Behavior aimed at the attainment of a particular desired end. Goal-directed behavior may be initiated as a result of external stimulation or as a result of mental planning. Goals may operate automatically or be controlled by effortful mental activity. Goal-directed behavior is typically analyzed in terms of the goals, the interrelationships among various active goals, and the means to attain the goal. To a certain degree, all normal human cognitive and overt actions can be considered goal directed.

- MD, AK