SEEKING System Flashcards
What is the function of the SEEKING system?
The function of the SEEKING system is to search, find, or anticipate rewards
It is involved in appetitive motivation rather than consummatory reward.
What has the SEEKING system been previously called?
The Brain Reward system
This term is misleading as there are several systems in the brain that respond to rewards.
What type of motivation does the SEEKING system involve?
Appetitive motivation
It is more about expectation than pleasure.
What happens when the SEEKING system is stimulated in animals?
Animals will look curious and start to explore their environment
They will investigate using their senses.
How do animals respond to self-stimulation of the SEEKING system?
They will do so until they drop from exhaustion
This indicates the reinforcing nature of the SEEKING system.
True or False: Reinforcing is the same as rewarding.
False
Reinforcing behaviors can occur without being pleasurable, as seen in craving and addiction.
What is the relationship between the SEEKING system and addiction?
The SEEKING system is hijacked in addiction, driving intense cravings and motivated behavior
Few addicts describe craving as pleasurable.
What does the SEEKING system motivate aside from food?
Behavior, invigoration, or enthusiasm
Electrical stimulation of the SEEKING system leads to energized exploratory behavior.
What is the effect of unsuccessful SEEKING on animals?
An animal may shift into despair or frustration
This can be illustrated by a driver losing a parking space.
What can lack of opportunity to perform innate motivated behaviors lead to in animals?
The development of inappropriate behaviors
This is due to limitations in their environment.
What is the SEEKING system’s role in motivation potential?
It is always a little active and never completely turned off
This is similar to how breathing occurs throughout the day.
What happens when an animal perceives a cue that predicts reward?
The SEEKING system fully activates and dopamine activity surges
This indicates the animal’s appetitive system is active.
What occurs after an animal secures a resource?
The SEEKING system ‘turns off’ and returns to low-level background engagement
This allows the consummatory system to engage.
Fill in the blank: The SEEKING system helps animals learn about their _______.
[environment]
It helps them learn what predicts resources and aversive situations.
What does the SEEKING system trigger in animals?
An orienting response
This aids animals in mapping their territory.
What does the SEEKING system counteract?
Negative feelings of hunger or fear
It motivates animals to take risks to obtain resources.
What is the significance of the SEEKING system in survival?
It enables animals to explore and learn about their environment
Without it, animals cannot navigate their surroundings.
