Psych~Chapter11

Flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 11 on motivation, including hunger, sexual motivation, affiliation, and achievement.

Motivation

Need or desire that energizes and directs behavior.

Drive-reduction theory

Physiological needs create an aroused tension state (a drive) that motivates an organism to satisfy the need.

Homeostasis

The tendency to maintain a balanced or constant internal state.

Incentive

Positive or negative environmental stimulus that motivates behavior.

Arousal theory

Humans are motivated to engage in behaviors that either increase or decrease arousal levels.

Yerkes-Dodson law

Performance increases with arousal only up to a point, beyond which performance decreases.

Maslow's hierarchy of needs

A pyramid of human motives; basic physiological needs at the base and higher needs at the peak.

Set point

Point at which "weight thermostat" may be set; regulates body weight.

Ghrelin

Hunger-arousing hormone secreted by an empty stomach.

Leptin

Hormone that diminishes hunger, secreted by fat cells.

Sexual orientation

Direction of sexual attractions as reflected in longings and fantasies.

Paraphilias

Experiencing sexual arousal from fantasies, behaviors, or urges involving nonhuman objects, suffering, or nonconsenting persons.

Sexually transmitted infection (STI)

Infection spread primarily from person-to-person sexual contact.

Social exclusion (ostracism)

Being shut out from social relationships, which threatens the need to belong.

Achievement motivation

Desire for significant accomplishment; for mastery of skills or ideas.