Module 4.6 Flashcards
Motivation
Drive-reduction theory
a theory of learning in which the goal of motivated behavior is a reduction of a drive state. It is assumed that all motivated behavior arises from drives, stemming from a disruption in homeostasis, and that responses that lead to reduction of those drives tend to be reinforced or strengthened
Arousal theory
the theory that the physical environment can affect arousal levels by stimulation and by stress created when psychological or physical needs are not met
Homeostasis
maintenance of a stable balance, evenness, or symmetry
Yerkes-Dodson Law
psychological principle that states performance on tasks improves up to a point with increased physiological or mental arousal (stress), but beyond that point, further increases in arousal can lead to decreased performance
Self-determinism theory
people are motivated by intrinsic or extrinsic motivations
Intrinsic motivations
an incentive to engage in a specific activity that derives from pleasure in the activity itself (a genuine interest in a subject studied) rather than because of any external benefits that might be obtained (money, course credits)
Extrinsic motivations
an external incentive to engage in a specific activity, especially motivation arising from the expectation of punishment or reward (completing a disliked chore in exchange for payment)
incentive theory
the theory that motivation arousal depends on the interaction between environmental incentives (stimulus objects)—both positive and negative—and an organism’s psychological and physiological states (drive states)
Instincts
an innate, species-specific biological force that impels an organism to do something, particularly to perform a certain act or respond in a certain manner to specific stimuli
Lewin’s motivational conflicts theory
This theory, proposed by psychologist Kurt Lewin, suggests that individuals are motivated to resolve conflicts that can be categorized into three types: approach-approach, avoidance-avoidance, and approach-avoidance
Approach-approach
a situation involving a choice between two equally desirable but incompatible alternatives
Approach-avoidance
a situation involving a single goal or option that has both desirable and undesirable aspects or consequences. The closer an individual comes to the goal, the greater the anxiety, but withdrawal from the goal then increases the desire
Avoidance-avoidance
a situation involving a choice between two equally objectionable alternatives, for example, when an individual must choose between unemployment and a salary cu
Sensation seeking theory
the tendency to search out and engage in thrilling activities as a method of increasing stimulation and arousal
Experience seeking
can occur by something completely new, like joining a dance team, or conquer a challenge, like running an ultramarathon
