Motivational Theories and Concepts

These flashcards cover key concepts and theories related to motivation and emotion as discussed in Chapter 10 of the lecture notes.

What are the two intertwined topics often discussed in psychology that relate to goal-directed behavior?

Motivation and emotion.

What is the drive theory of motivation?

A theory that suggests internal states of tension motivate organisms to engage in activities that reduce this tension.

What do incentive theories propose about motivation?

They propose that external stimuli regulate motivational states.

What is the expectancy-value model in motivation?

It's a model that states a person's motivation to pursue a certain action depends on their expectancy of achieving the desired incentive and the value they place on that incentive.

What does parental investment theory suggest about gender differences in mating behavior?

It suggests that the gender that makes a smaller investment in offspring will compete for mating opportunities with the gender that makes a larger investment.

What physiological factors regulate hunger?

Hunger is regulated by specific hormones, such as ghrelin which increases hunger, and CCK which signals satiety.

What is the relationship between food variety and eating behavior?

Humans and animals tend to consume more when a greater variety of food is available due to sensory-specific satiety.

What is the affiliation motive?

The need to associate with others and maintain social bonds.

What psychological impact does ostracism have on individuals?

Ostracism can lead to feelings of pain, anxiety, and reduced self-esteem.

What is the James-Lange theory of emotion?

The theory that the conscious experience of emotion results from one’s perception of autonomic arousal.

What does the Cannon-Bard theory propose about the experience of emotion?

It posits that emotion occurs when the thalamus sends signals to the cortex and the autonomic nervous system simultaneously.

How does Schachter's two-factor theory explain emotion?

It states that experience of emotion depends on both autonomic arousal and cognitive interpretation of that arousal.

What are some environmental and social factors that influence eating behavior?

Food availability, social settings, learned preferences, and stress can all influence when and what people eat.

What are some common misconceptions about happiness?

That predictors such as money, age, or attractiveness directly correlate with happiness.

What is the ultimate outcome of subjective well-being based on the research mentioned?

It indicates a stable perspective that subjective feelings about life often matter more than objective circumstances.

How does evolutionary theory explain emotions?

It suggests that emotions are innate responses shaped by natural selection to enhance survival and reproduction.

What are the core components of emotion according to the textbook?

Cognitive (subjective experience), physiological (autonomic arousal), and behavioral (expressive reactions).

What is meant by the concept of set point in relation to weight regulation?

The idea that each individual has a natural range of stability for weight around which the body tends to regulate itself.

According to the chapter, what psychological factors contribute to the roots of obesity?

Genetic predispositions and environmental influences such as diet and physical activity levels.

What did the study of Masters and Johnson reveal about the human sexual response cycle?

It divided the cycle into four stages: excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.

What findings did researchers discover relating to gender differences in sexual motivation?

Males generally show more interest in sexual activity and engage in sex more frequently than females.

In terms of happiness, what is one key observation regarding the impact of social relationships?

Social relationships and partnerships significantly contribute to feelings of happiness and well-being.