Motivation and Hunger

A set of flashcards focused on key terminology and concepts related to motivation and hunger, as discussed in the lecture.

Motivation

Any and all processes that direct an organism towards some type of goal.

Drive Theories

Theories that suggest motivation arises from biological drives that create pressure which directs behavior.

Incentive Theories

Theories that propose that goals vary in their value and that organisms are motivated by different incentives.

Homeostasis

The process of maintaining a stable internal environment to ensure survival.

Biological Motives

Motives that are driven by survival needs such as hunger, thirst, and body temperature.

Social Motives

Motives related to social interactions and emotional well-being, such as the need for friendship and belonging.

Leptin

A hormone released by fat cells that regulates energy balance and inhibits hunger.

Ghrelin

A hormone produced in the stomach that signals hunger and stimulates appetite.

The Rule of Three

A guideline for survival indicating that one can go approximately three minutes without air, three days without water, and three weeks without food.

Hydraulic Theory

A model of drive theory suggesting motivation is like a pressure system that builds until the drive is satisfied.

Hypothalamus

A brain region involved in the regulation of hunger and various biological drives.

Regulatory Drives

Drives that are essential for survival, such as hunger and thirst.

Super Tasters

Individuals with heightened sensitivity to certain tastes, particularly bitter flavors.

Behaviorism

A psychological approach that emphasizes the study of observable behaviors and the responses to stimuli.

Operant Conditioning

A method of learning that occurs through rewards and punishments for behavior.