Social Psychology and Personality
Which of the following concepts is MOST closely associated with the drive-reduction theory?
Arousal optimization
Homeostasis
Incentive motivation
Instinctive behavior
A student feels thirsty after a long workout and drinks water. According to the drive-reduction theory, what process is occurring?
The body is seeking an optimal level of arousal.
The body is reducing a physiological need to maintain balance.
The student is responding to an external incentive.
The student is exhibiting instinctive behavior.
Which of the following scenarios BEST illustrates how drive-reduction theory differs from arousal theory?
Someone eating because they are hungry versus someone eating because they are bored.
Someone studying to get a good grade versus someone studying because they enjoy learning.
Someone running from a bear versus someone skydiving for fun.
Someone choosing between two equally appealing job offers.
According to the Yerkes-Dodson Law, what level of arousal typically leads to optimal performance?
Very low arousal
Very high arousal
Moderate arousal
Fluctuating arousal
A basketball player performs best during games when they feel challenged but not overwhelmed. Which concept explains this phenomenon?
Drive-reduction theory
Incentive theory
Yerkes-Dodson Law
Self-determination theory
How would the Yerkes-Dodson Law explain the difference in optimal arousal levels for a complex surgery versus a simple task like washing dishes?
Complex tasks require higher arousal levels for focus, while simple tasks require lower arousal levels to avoid boredom.
Complex tasks require lower arousal levels to prevent mistakes, while simple tasks benefit from higher arousal to maintain engagement.
Both tasks require the same moderate level of arousal for optimal performance.
Arousal level is irrelevant to task performance; skill level is the only factor.
Reading a book purely because you enjoy the story is an example of:
Extrinsic motivation
Drive reduction
Incentive motivation
Intrinsic motivation

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A student studies diligently to get a good grade in a class. Which type of motivation is the student MOST likely exhibiting?
Intrinsic motivation
Instinctive motivation
Extrinsic motivation
Arousal motivation
A talented musician continues to practice and perform, even without external rewards, but also seeks out opportunities to win competitions and gain recognition. How would you describe the musician's motivation?
Primarily extrinsically motivated, as competitions are the main driver.
Purely intrinsically motivated, as the enjoyment of music is the only factor.
A combination of intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, with internal enjoyment and external rewards both playing a role.
Neither intrinsically nor extrinsically motivated, but driven by an unconscious need for achievement.
According to incentive theory, what primarily motivates human behavior?
Innate biological drives
External rewards and punishments
The need for optimal arousal
Unconscious desires