Which model would predict that people seek to maintain an optimal level of arousal?

Which model would predict that people seek to maintain an optimal level of arousal?

• A. Arousal Theory of Motivation
• B. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
• C. Physiological Needs
• D. Safety Needs

Answer: (A)

At the heart of this idea is arousal theory of motivation, which says people are motivated to keep their level of physiological arousal within an optimal range. When arousal is too low, they seek stimulation to raise it; when arousal is too high, they choose calming or less stimulating activities to bring it down. This fits with the sense that there’s a sweet spot where performance and engagement are best, often described by an inverted-U relationship between arousal and performance. Maslow’s hierarchy focuses on a ladder of needs—from basic survival to self-actualization—rather than how people regulate arousal. Physiological needs cover basic bodily requirements, and safety needs concern security, not ongoing arousal management.

At the heart of this idea is arousal theory of motivation, which says people are motivated to keep their level of physiological arousal within an optimal range. When arousal is too low, they seek stimulation to raise it; when arousal is too high, they choose calming or less stimulating activities to bring it down. This fits with the sense that there’s a sweet spot where performance and engagement are best, often described by an inverted-U relationship between arousal and performance. Maslow’s hierarchy focuses on a ladder of needs—from basic survival to self-actualization—rather than how people regulate arousal. Physiological needs cover basic bodily requirements, and safety needs concern security, not ongoing arousal management.