Which theory states that a physiological need creates an aroused tension state that motivates an organism to satisfy the need?

• A. Emotion
• B. Drive-Reduction Theory
• C. Cognitive Label/Appraisal
• D. Display Rules

Answer: (B)

This question tests how physiological needs generate an aroused drive that motivates behavior to satisfy the need. Drive-Reduction Theory holds that a biological need creates an internal tension or drive, and this drive pushes the organism to take actions that will reduce the tension and restore balance. For example, hunger creates a drive to eat, while thirst creates a drive to drink; the behavior chosen is aimed at satisfying the need and returning to a state of homeostasis. The other concepts describe different ideas: emotion involves the experience of feelings and arousal, cognitive labeling/appraisal is about interpreting arousal to identify what emotion is being felt, and display rules concern how emotions are outwardly expressed in social contexts rather than driving goal-directed actions to meet a physiological need.