Motivation and Emotion Flashcards

Which theory of motivation proposes that behavior is driven by the need to reduce internal states of tension caused by biological needs?

Answer: Drive reduction theory

Drive reduction theory, proposed by Clark Hull, suggests that biological needs create drives (tension states) that motivate behavior to restore homeostasis.

Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs places which type of need at the highest level?

Answer: Self-actualization

Self-actualization, representing the fulfillment of one's full potential, sits at the peak of Maslow's five-level hierarchy of needs.

According to the Yerkes-Dodson law, optimal performance is achieved at which level of arousal?

Answer: Moderate levels of arousal

The Yerkes-Dodson law states that performance peaks at moderate arousal levels, with too little or too much arousal impairing performance.

Intrinsic motivation refers to engaging in behavior primarily because:

Answer: The activity itself is inherently rewarding

Intrinsic motivation comes from internal rewards such as interest, enjoyment, or personal satisfaction derived directly from the activity itself.

Which hormone produced by fat cells signals the hypothalamus to reduce hunger when energy stores are sufficient?

Answer: Leptin

Leptin, produced by adipose (fat) cells, acts as a satiety signal to the hypothalamus, suppressing appetite when energy reserves are adequate.

The James-Lange theory of emotion proposes that:

Answer: Physiological arousal precedes and causes the subjective feeling of emotion

James-Lange theory holds that we first experience a physiological change (e.g., racing heart), and our interpretation of that change produces the subjective emotion.

Self-determination theory identifies three basic psychological needs. Which of the following is NOT one of them?

Answer: Status

Deci and Ryan's self-determination theory identifies autonomy, competence, and relatedness as the three core psychological needs — not status.