Optimal arousal theory ap Psychology example
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The basic assumption of the optimal arousal theory of motivation is that environmental factors influence our brain’s level of arousal. We engage
in certain actions for the purpose of attaining an optimal arousal level by either decreasing or increasing the amount and type of stimulation received from the environment. What is Optimal ArousalWhat is optimal arousal varies from person to person and from situation to situation. Ideally though, we’re generally more motivated when we perform tasks or engage in activities that provide us with challenges that are appropriate for our abilities, i.e. these
tasks are neither too difficult nor too easy for us. According to the optimal arousal theory of motivation, we undergo different levels of arousal brought about by our particular set of experiences throughout our lives. When the arousal level is extremely low and we feel bored, we engage in activities that will increase our arousal level, such as going out with friends, watching a car race or playing video games. On the other hand, when arousal level is too high, such as when we are too anxious or stressed, we often resort to engaging in relaxation methods such as reading a book, getting a massage, or meditating. Some people are naturally inclined to be thrill seekers, and they tend to have higher
optimal arousal levels. They require intense physical, emotional and intellectual activities to make them happy. For example, they may prefer skydiving to reading. Optimal Arousal Level and PerformanceThe optimal arousal theory of motivation states that we seek to attain optimal arousal level because by achieving the optimal arousal level, we can perform at our best. We know that we have reached the optimal arousal level when we are comfortable physically,
emotionally and intellectually. We experience harmony and balance within our bodies and our minds. Therefore,
it is important for us to listen to our body and to keep our body in balance by heeding signals that it gives us. These signals provide us with vital information such as being in need of sleep, in need of a distraction from problems, or in need of a pleasurable activity when feeling overworked. The Yerkes-Dodson LawAn interesting corollary related to the optimal arousal theory of motivation is the Yerkes-Dodson Law. In 1908, psychologists Robert M. Yerkes and John Dillingham Dodson investigated the relationship between people’s arousal levels and their performance in various tasks. Based on the results, they developed the Yerkes-Dodson Law. The Yerkes-Dodson Law states that our performance increases as our mental and physiological arousal levels increase. However, there is a point at which further increase in arousal level won’t have any positive impact on our performance. According to the Yorke-Dodson Law, our performance on easy tasks tends to remain favorable as high arousal level is maintained. However, when it comes to difficult tasks, our performance will decline in spite of an increase in arousal level once we reach a certain level of arousal. The reason is that being overly aroused may elicit overactivity of the sympathetic nervous system and make it quite difficult for us to concentrate. Therefore, we generally perform best when our arousal is at a moderate level. Applications of the Yerkes-Dodson LawOne useful application of the Yerkes-Dodson Law is for us to utilize knowledge about our personal motivation and optimal arousal levels to take control of our physical
environment. Taking control of our environment entails carefully studying the task at hand, determining whether the task can be considered an easy or a difficult one, and identifying what is required of us. When working on a difficult task, we should make sure that our environment does not cause over arousal. For example, we limit our exposure to noise and distractions in our environment by turning off the television, shutting off our phone or staying in a quiet
room increase the chances of enhanced performance on the difficult task. In cases where we can’t control our environment, we have the option to change the task that we
need to perform. In a highly stimulating environment, we do better on simpler tasks than difficult tasks. The principles of the Yerkes-Dodson Law, as well as the optimal arousal theory of motivation, may also be applied in numerous ways in workplace situations, wherein productivity, peak performance and job satisfaction are important issues. Comparison with the Drive Reduction Theory of MotivationThe optimal arousal theory of motivation is quite similar to and
borrows some concepts from Clark Hull’s Drive Reduction Theory of Motivation. However, while Hull’s theory focuses on a reduction of tension as the basis of motivation, the optimal arousal theory emphasizes the importance of a balance in arousal levels. What is an example of optimal arousal theory?Examples of arousal theory include: If our arousal levels drop too low, we might seek stimulation by going out to a nightclub with friends. If our arousal levels become too elevated and we become overstimulated, we might be motivated to select a relaxing activity such as going for a walk or taking a nap.
What is the optimal arousal theory AP Psychology?Optimal arousal theory posits that there is an ideal level of anxiety or stress that leads to peak performance. This level is different for every individual, and can change depending on the task at hand. Too much or too little arousal will lead to suboptimal performance.
How does optimum arousal theory explain a person's motivation?According to the arousal theory of motivation, each person has a unique arousal level that is right for them. When our arousal levels drop below these personalized optimal levels, we seek some sort of stimulation to elevate them.
What is an example of arousal?A real-life example of the effects of physiological arousal on cognition is when you're walking through the woods and you notice a rattlesnake in front of the walkway on the ground. You would feel alarmed and scared (physiological arousal).
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