Psychology Motivation Theories

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Questions and Answers

What are the three basic needs outlined in Self-Determination Theory?

Autonomy, Security, Growth

Love, Esteem, Companionship

Competence, Relatedness, Autonomy (correct)

Safety, Love, Self-actualization

Which theory suggests that physiological arousal precedes emotional experience?

Cannon-Bard Theory

Self-Regulation Theory

Drive Reduction Theory

James-Lange Theory (correct)

In Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, which need is considered the highest?

Safety

Love/Belonging

Self-Actualization (correct)

Esteem

What is a key characteristic of self-actualized individuals according to Maslow?

Comfortable acceptance of self Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of the autonomic nervous system in emotional response?

To manage physiological arousal Signup and view all the answers

What does the Facial Feedback Hypothesis propose?

Facial expressions can influence emotions. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Yerkes-Dodson law relate to?

The relationship between arousal and performance Signup and view all the answers

What is procrastination most commonly linked to?

Impulsivity Signup and view all the answers

What does the Two-Factor Theory of Emotion emphasize as key to determining one's emotional state?

Physiological arousal and cognitive labeling Signup and view all the answers

What is an outcome of negative emotions according to the adaptive function of emotions?

They encourage immediate corrective action Signup and view all the answers

What concept explains the idea that pleasure is often short-lived?

Hedonic treadmill Signup and view all the answers

Which part of Theory of Mind involves recognizing that others can possess beliefs different from one's own?

Meta-representation Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT characteristic of individuals on the autism spectrum?

Excessive verbal communication skills Signup and view all the answers

What do mirror neurons primarily respond to?

Both observing and performing an action or emotion Signup and view all the answers

According to the broaden-and-build model, what is a function of positive emotions?

Encouragement of exploration and creativity Signup and view all the answers

What task measures the ability to interpret emotions based on facial expressiveness around the eyes?

Reading the Mind in the Eyes task Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential cognitive issue for individuals who struggle with Theory of Mind tasks?

Weak central coherence Signup and view all the answers

Which theory suggests that empathy involves sharing the emotional experiences of others?

Simulation theory Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Motivation

Motivation is the driving force behind behavior, thoughts, and feelings. It energizes, directs, and maintains actions.
Evolutionary Approach: Focuses on instincts and inborn drives.
Optimum Arousal Theory (Yerkes-Dodson Law): Suggests performance is best at intermediate levels of arousal.
Drive Reduction Theory: Organisms seek homeostasis by reducing internal drives and needs.
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: A hierarchical model of needs, starting with physiological needs and culminating in self-actualization (achieving full potential).
Self-actualizing characteristics include: efficient perceptions of reality, self-acceptance, reliance on experience, spontaneity, task-centering, autonomy, appreciation of beauty, strong relationships, comfort with solitude, a unique sense of humor, peak experiences, social compassion, and few close but meaningful relationships rather than many casual ones.
Self-Determination Theory: Emphasizes three basic needs: competence, relatedness, and autonomy.
Self-Regulation: The process of controlling behavior to achieve goals.

Effective Goal Setting

Specific, moderately challenging goals, with long-term purpose and short-term accomplishments are most effective.

Emotion

Emotion is a feeling involving physiological arousal, conscious experience, and behavioral expression.
Physiological Arousal: Controlled by the autonomic nervous system, particularly the sympathetic nervous system (arousing) and parasympathetic nervous system (calming). Measured using polygraphs, though these are not always reliable indicators of deception.
Limbic System (Amygdala): Plays a crucial role in processing emotional stimuli (direct & indirect routes).
Theories of Emotion:
- James-Lange Theory: Emotion follows physiological arousal.
- Cannon-Bard Theory: Emotion and physiological arousal occur simultaneously.
- Two-Factor Theory (Schachter/Singer): Emotion depends on both physiological arousal and cognitive labeling of that arousal.
Facial Feedback Hypothesis: Facial expressions can influence emotions.

Emotion: Cognitive Factors

Two-Factor Theory (Schachter/Singer): Physiological arousal is followed by labeling the arousal to determine the emotion. For example, fear or attraction.

Classifying Emotions

Valence: Positive or negative affect.
Arousal Level: Active/engaged or passive/calm.

Adaptive Function of Emotions

Negative Emotions: Initiate corrective action.
Positive Emotions: Broaden and build resources, encouraging exploration and creativity.

Pursuit of Happiness

Biological Factors: Genetics and a baseline level of happiness (set-point).
Obstacles: Hedonic treadmill (pleasure is short-lived).
Promoting happiness: Altruism, physical activity, reflection, meaningful goals.

Reading Emotions

Emotions are private but can be inferred through behavior, expression, and gaze.
Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others.
Simulation Theory: Understanding emotions via shared neural pathways between observing and performing actions.
Mirror Neurons: Specialized neurons involved in both observing and performing actions or mirroring emotions.
Theory of Mind: Understanding that others may have different mental states and beliefs.
Meta-representation: Recognizing that others' perspectives may differ from one's own.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A developmental condition affecting social interaction, communication, and behavior.
Characteristics: Include qualitative impairments in social interaction, communication, and repetitive or restricted behaviors.
Possible Causes: May involve difficulty with Theory of Mind, weak central coherence, or a systemizing vs. empathizing processing style.

Reading the Mind in the Eyes Task

A task assessing the ability to interpret emotions based on eye expressions.

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Description

Explore the various theories of motivation including the evolutionary approach, optimum arousal theory, drive reduction theory, and Maslow's hierarchy of needs. This quiz covers key concepts and characteristics of self-actualization, as well as self-determination theory. Test your understanding of what drives behavior and personal growth.