Psych Notes: Motivation and Emotion

-a need or desire that energizes and directs behavior

Instinct Theory
-we are motivated by our inborn automated behaviors
-but instincts only explain why we do a small fraction of our behaviors

Drive Reduction Theory
-the idea that a physiological need creates an aroused tension state (a drive) that motivates an organism to satisfy the need
-the need is usually to maintain homeostasis
-also pulled by incentives: a positive or negative environmental stimulus that motivates behavior

Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
-Abraham Maslow said we are motivated by needs, and all needs are not created equal
-we are driven to satisfy the lower level needs first

Hunger
-both physiological and psychological
-Hunger does not come from our stomach, but comes from the HYPOTHALAMUS

• Hypothalamus 
• Lateral- when stimulated, it makes you hungry. When destroyed, you will never be hungry again
• Ventromedial- when stimulated, you feel full. When damaged, you will never feel full again