AP Psych

Motivation

A need or desire that energizes and directs behavior.

Instinct

A complex, unlearned behavior that is rigidly patterned throughout a species.

Drive-Reduction Theory

The idea that a physiological need creates an aroused state (drive) that motivates behavior to satisfy that need.

Arousal Theory

The theory that some motivated behaviors increase arousal rather than reduce it.

Incentive Theory

The theory that positive or negative environmental stimuli can motivate behavior even in the absence of a need or drive.

Hierarchy of Needs

Maslow's pyramid of human needs, where physiological needs must be satisfied before higher-level needs become active.

Optimal Arousal Theory

The theory that the level of arousal for optimal performance varies with the task.

Yerkes-Dodson Law

The principle that performance is best when moderately aroused, with varying arousal levels for different task difficulties.

James-Lange Theory

The theory that physiological reactions occur first, leading to the experience of emotion.

Cannon-Bard Theory

The theory that emotion and physiological responses occur simultaneously.

Cognition Theory (Schachter Two-Factor Theory)

The theory that physiological responses are interpreted by the mind to label emotions.

Robert Zajonc's Theory

The idea that emotional reactions can occur before conscious interpretation of a situation.

Richard Lazarus's Theory

The concept that some emotional responses do not require conscious thinking, despite cognitive appraisal occurring.

Lie Detection

The use of a polygraph to measure physiological responses to detect lies, which is not very accurate.

Facial Expressions

Universal expressions of emotion that are recognized across cultures, as identified by Ekman.

Display Rules

Socially learned norms that dictate how emotions should be expressed within a culture.

Facial Feedback Effect

The phenomenon where smiling can induce feelings of happiness.

Fear

An adaptive response that prepares the body to flee danger, acquired through conditioning or learning.

Anger

An emotional response caused by various annoyances, which can be channeled through healthy outlets.

Happiness

A state influenced by the adaptation-level principle and relative-deprivation principle, with predictors including self-esteem and social connections.