Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Human motivation isn't solely driven by needs reduction; arousal plays a crucial role. Arousal refers to the level of physiological and psychological activation. Arousal theory, proposed by Hebb (1955) and later refined by others, suggests that performance is optimal at a moderate level of arousal. This contrasts with drive reduction theory, which posits motivation stems from reducing internal tension. Understanding this interplay is key to comprehending human behavior.
Arousal Theory Explained
Arousal theory proposes individuals seek an optimal level of arousal. This is often illustrated by the Yerkes-Dodson Law, which states the relationship between arousal and performance is an inverted U-shaped curve.
- Low Arousal: Leads to boredom and lack of motivation.
- Moderate Arousal: Optimal for complex tasks, enhancing focus and performance.
- High Arousal: Beneficial for simple tasks, but detrimental to complex ones, causing anxiety and errors.
For example, a student might need moderate arousal to study effectively, while an athlete needs high arousal for a sprint. Individuals differ in their optimal arousal levels – introverts generally prefer lower arousal than extroverts.
Conclusion
In essence, arousal theory highlights that motivation isn’t just about fulfilling needs, but also about maintaining an optimal level of physiological and psychological activation. This optimal level varies based on personality and task complexity. Recognizing this dynamic is crucial for understanding and influencing human behavior and performance.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.