AP psych unit 8A

Drive-Reduction Theory – We act to reduce internal tension caused by unmet biological needs.

Homeostasis – The body’s drive to keep internal balance (like temperature or blood sugar).

Arousal Theory – We’re motivated to maintain our ideal level of alertness and stimulation.

Optimal Level of Arousal – The personal “sweet spot” where we perform best—not too bored or stressed.

Yerkes-Dodson Law – Performance is best at moderate arousal; too much or too little hurts performance.

Self-Determination Theory – Motivation comes from the need to feel competent, autonomous, and connected.

Intrinsic Motivation – Doing something for its own sake because it’s enjoyable or meaningful.

Incentive Theory – We’re pulled to act by rewards or punishments in the environment.

Extrinsic Motivation – Doing something for a reward or to avoid punishment.

Instincts – Inborn, fixed behavior patterns triggered by specific stimuli.

Lewin’s Motivational Conflicts Theory – Describes the stress from conflicting motivations or goals.

Approach-Approach Conflicts – Choosing between two appealing options.

Approach-Avoidance Conflicts – One option has both positives and negatives.

Avoidance-Avoidance Conflicts – Choosing between two undesirable options.

Sensation-Seeking Theory – Some people are motivated by high-risk or exciting experiences.

Boredom Susceptibility – Sensitivity to monotony; discomfort from routine or dull situations.

Affect – A broad term for emotional states, including moods and feelings.

Internal and External Factors – Internal = within the person (biological, psychological); External = outside influences (environment, people).

Physiological vs Cognitive Experiences – Bodily responses (e.g., heart rate) vs. thoughts and interpretations of emotion.

Cognitive Label – The name or meaning we assign to an emotional experience (e.g., “I feel anxious”).

Facial-Feedback Hypothesis – Facial expressions can influence the emotion we feel.

Cognitive Appraisal – Our interpretation of a situation determines the emotion we feel.

Display Rules – Cultural guidelines for when and how emotions should be expressed.

Elicitors – External events or stimuli that trigger emotional responses.