Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

What is the main concept of drive-reduction theory?

1. External incentives drive motivation

2. Arousal motivates behavior to reduce needs

3. Behavior is motivated by social approval

4. Goals are driven solely by cognitive processes

The correct answer is: Arousal motivates behavior to reduce needs

Drive-reduction theory posits that motivation is fundamentally tied to biological needs. According to this theory, an individual experiences a state of tension that arises from an unmet biological need, such as hunger or thirst. This tension or drive compels the person to engage in behaviors aimed at reducing that need, thereby restoring a state of equilibrium. For instance, when someone is hungry, the drive to eat motivates them to seek out food, and once food is consumed, the drive is reduced, leading to a sense of satisfaction. In contrast, the other concepts presented suggest alternative motivations for behavior. The notion that external incentives drive motivation emphasizes the role of rewards and punishments from the environment, rather than internal biological drives. The idea that behavior is motivated by social approval focuses on social factors rather than biological needs. Finally, the assertion that goals are driven solely by cognitive processes overlooks the essential role of physiological states in influencing behavior. Thus, the central concept of drive-reduction theory is correctly aligned with how unmet physiological needs drive an individual to take action to alleviate those needs.