Motivation and Emotion

Instinct Theory

behavior is driven by innate, automatic tendencies

Drive-Reduction Theory

Motivation comes from reducing internal tension caused by unmet biological needs

Optimal Arousal Theory

We seek an ideal level of arousal - not too high or low - to stay motivated

Yerkes-Dodson Law

Performance increases with arousal to a point, then decreases if arousal is too high

Set Points

The body’s natural weight thermostat that regulates hunger and metabolism

Lateral Hypothalamus

Stimulates hunger

Ventromedial Hypothalamus

Signals fullness and stops eating

Basal Metabolic Rate

The rate at which the body burns energy at rest

Puberty

The biological changes during adolescence that lead to sexual maturity

Sexual Response Cycle

Excitation, plateau, orgasm, and resolution stages.

James-Lange Theory

Emotion comes after physiological response (e.g., we feel afraid because we tremble)

Cannon-Bard Theory

Emotional and physiological reaction happen simultaneously

Schachter-Singer (Two-Factor) Theory

Emotion based on physical arousal and cognitive label

Lazarus Theory

Emotion depends on apraisal (interpretation) of the situation

Zajonc-LeDoux Theory

Some emotions happen instantly, before conscious appraisal

Opponent-Process Theory

Emotion comes in pairs; when is one triggered, the other is suppressed

Facial Feedback Effect

Facial expressions can influence emotional experience

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs

A pyramid of human needs, starting with basic survival and moving towards self-actualization

Stressors

Events or situations that cause stress

Stress Reactions

Physical, emotional, and behavior changes

Approach-Approach Conflict

Choosing between two desirable options

Avoidance-Avoidance Conflict

Choosing between two undesirable options

Approach-Avoidance Conflict

Facing one option with both positive and negative aspects

Double Approach-Avoidance Conflict

Choosing between two options, each with positive and negative aspects

Primary Appraisal

Assessing if a situation is stressful or not

Secondary Appraisal

Evaluating your ability to cope with the stressor

Alarm Stage

The body’s immediate reaction to stress (Fight or Flight)

Resistance Stage

The body tries to adapt to the stress

Exhaustion Stage

The body’s resources are depleted; risk of illness increases

Healthy Ways to Cope

Exercise, social support, relaxation techniques, problem-solving

Unhealthy Ways to Cope

Substance abuse, denial avoidance, aggression

Stress effects on immune System

Chronic stress weakens immune response, increasing illness risk

Stress effects on heart disease

Stress increased blood pressure and inflammation, raising heart disease risk