Question

20 – Describe the elements of "Arousal Theory".

Answer 1

• This theory suggests that individuals take certain actions in order to increase or decrease heir levels of arousal with a goal to maintain an optimal level or arousal.
• Arousal levels are highly individual is the key element-The arousal theory of motivation suggests that each individual has different arousal level that is perfect for them. The theory also suggests that we tend to seek for our own stimulation in order to maintain our optimal level of arousal.
• Another element in the theory is that, a person has to maintain an optimal level of arousal. People who need more arousal than others are called sensation seekers.
• One of the elements of the arousal theory of motivation is that our levels of arousal can influence our performance. This is commonly referred to as the Yerkes-Dodson Law. The law states that increased levels of arousal will improve performance, but only up until the optimum arousal level is reached. At that point, performance begins to suffer as arousal levels increase. Additionally, if you're doing a complex task, high or low levels of arousal will affect you more than if you're doing something simple.