Motivation

What is motivation?

The energization and direction of behavior.

What does motivation direct behavior towards?

Valued goals and outcomes.

What is instinct theory?

The belief that human behavior is biologically rooted in instincts.

Define instincts.

Fixed patterns that are unlearned, universal, and released by specific conditions.

Who is William McDougall?

A psychologist who believed that a whole range of human behaviors are instinctually based.

What are the limitations of instinct theory?

It produces a long list of human instincts without explaining them and relies on circular reasoning.

What does drive theory focus on?

Physiological drives such as hunger, thirst, sex, and avoidance of pain.

What are the limitations of drive theory?

It does not account for behaviors that increase tension.

What does arousal theory propose?

Humans are motivated to achieve and maintain an optimal arousal state.

Define an incentive.

Any stimulus associated with a positive outcome.

What does Maslow's hierarchy of needs propose?

Basic human needs must be satisfied before an individual can achieve self-actualization.

What are physiological needs?

Basic needs necessary for survival, including food, water, and sleep.

What happens once physiological needs are satisfied?

People seek safety needs such as financial security and stability.

What do social needs encompass?

Affiliation, affection, and belongingness to others.

Define esteem needs.

Needs related to self-worth, such as respect, recognition, and achievement.

What is self-actualization?

The need to live up to and realize one's fullest potential.

What is self-transcendence?

The need that arises once an individual is self-actualized, seeking purpose beyond oneself.

What did Cannon and Washburn demonstrate about hunger?

Hunger is triggered by sensations in the stomach.

What is a major flaw in the stomach theory of hunger?

People without stomachs can still feel psychological hunger.

What role does the hypothalamus play in hunger?

It is involved in regulating hunger in the brain.

What is anorexia nervosa?

An eating disorder characterized by extreme fear of weight gain and self-starvation.

What defines bulimia nervosa?

Cycles of extreme binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise.

What physiological changes occur during the sexual response cycle?

Excitement, plateau, orgasm, and resolution.

What do hormones influence in sexual behavior?

They direct the development of sex characteristics and activate sexual behavior.

What is the significance of twin studies in sexual orientation?

52% of identical twins are homosexual if one is, compared to 22% of fraternal twins.

Why do humans have a need for affiliation?

It aids in survival and contributes to mental health and social connections.

What is the need for intimacy?

The desire for close relationships, often leading to greater happiness and health.

Define the need for achievement.

A strong desire to accomplish challenging tasks and excel.

What is the need for power?

The desire to acquire prestige and influence over others.

What are Amy Wrzesniewski's attitudes towards work?

Job, career, and calling - varying levels of fulfillment and satisfaction.

What is the state of flow at work?

A psychological state marked by intense concentration and immersion in an activity.

What contributes to an increase in quality of life according to Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi?

Experiencing flow when abilities align with challenges.