Unit 4 (AP Psychology): Theories of Motivation

Yerkes-Dodson Law Of Arousal

The principle that performance increases with arousal but only up to a certain point. If an individual goes beyond that point their performance starts to decrease.

Arousal Theory

Focuses on how a person’s motivation is impacted by the amount of stimulation they are experiencing.

Drive-Reduction Theory

People are motivated by needs, drives, responses, and goals.

Self-Determination Theory

States that people can be motivated by intrinsic or extrinsic motivation. Focuses on how people are naturally inclined to grow and develop. This happens when a person feels a sense of control over their actions.

Intrinsic Motivation

Perform a behavior for their own sake

Extrinsic Motivation

Perform a behavior because of promised reward or threat of punishment.

Incentive Theory

Believes that behavior is largely driven by external rewards or punishments, individuals are motivated to act due to extrinsic motivation.

Sensation- Seeking Theory

Proposes that individuals have different needs for experiences, with each need impacting an individual’s motivation to act.

Kurt Lewin’s Motivational Conflict Theory

Focuses on how people become motivated to act when confronted with a choice.(Approach-Approach Conflict, Avoidance- Approach Conflict, Approach-Avoidance)