Arousal Theory of Motivation

Definition

The arousal theory of motivation suggests that humans are motivated to seek an optimal level of arousal or excitement. It proposes that individuals have a natural tendency to maintain a moderate level of arousal, and when the level falls below or exceeds their preferred range, they are motivated to engage in behaviors that restore balance.

Related terms

Yerkes-Dodson Law:

This law states that there is an optimal level of arousal for performance on different tasks. Too little or too much arousal can lead to decreased performance.

Sensation Seeking: Individuals who have a high need for varied and novel experiences are considered sensation seekers. They actively seek out activities that provide them with higher levels of stimulation.

Flow State: Flow refers to a state where individuals are fully immersed and focused on an activity, experiencing a sense of energized focus and enjoyment. This state is associated with optimal performance and intrinsic motivation.