PSYCO104 Lecture Notes - Lecture 11: Drive Theory, Homeostasis, Dieting

• School: University of Alberta
• Department: Psychology
• Course: PSYCO104
• Professor: Sheri Thibeau

Document Summary

Based on darwin"s theory of evolution instinct motivates behaviour. Instinct: inherited predisposition to behave a certain way in response to certain stimuli (predictable) Faded due to lack of evidence and circular reasoning: Genes related to behaviours that increase chances of survival and reproduction. Internal physiological equilibrium that the body strives to maintain. E. g. , when you"re thirsty, you get a drink. Applied to thirst, hunger, body temperature, weight, sleep, etc. Less influential people behave contrary to its predictions. A thing that motivates or encourages an organism to do something. Unlike the push of drive theory, incentives provide a pull toward a goal. Focus on the pull of external stimuli, even in the absence of biological need. E. g. , finish a meal, but still want dessert. People often respond differently to the same incentive. Strength of expectation that behaviour will lead to a goal. Value that person places on goal (incentive value) Performing activity to obtain external reward or to avoid punishment.