Which of the following statements about drive theory is INCORRECT?
According to drive theory, once our behavior successfully reduces a drive, we are more likely to repeat the behaviour if the drive reoccurs.
According to drive theory, we are driven to develop new physiological needs in order to motivate our own behaviour.
According to drive theory, needs result in psychological drive states that direct behaviour to meet the need.
According to drive theory, deviations from homeostasis create physiological needs.
The correct answer and explanation is:
Correct Answer:
“According to drive theory, we are driven to develop new physiological needs in order to motivate our own behavior.”
Explanation:
Drive theory, originally proposed by Clark Hull, is a psychological framework that explains motivation as the result of biological or physiological needs. It suggests that organisms are motivated to take action in order to reduce internal states of tension caused by unmet needs, thus restoring homeostasis.
Why This Statement is Incorrect:
Drive theory does not propose that humans or animals develop new physiological needs to motivate behavior. Instead, it states that organisms experience innate biological drives (such as hunger, thirst, and sleep) that push them to engage in behaviors to satisfy these needs. These drives originate from a state of imbalance in the body’s homeostasis. When the balance is disturbed, the organism feels a drive that compels it to act in a way that restores equilibrium.
Key Concepts of Drive Theory:
- Homeostasis & Physiological Needs: Drive theory is rooted in the principle of homeostasis—the body’s tendency to maintain a stable internal environment. For example, if someone is deprived of food, their body creates a state of hunger that motivates them to eat.
- Drive Reduction: When a need arises (e.g., hunger), it leads to a psychological drive (e.g., craving food), which prompts behavior (e.g., eating). Once the drive is reduced, the likelihood of repeating the behavior when the drive recurs increases.
- No Development of New Needs: Unlike other motivational theories (such as Maslow’s hierarchy of needs), drive theory does not suggest that people create new physiological needs; instead, it focuses on existing biological drives.
Thus, the idea that individuals actively develop new physiological needs to motivate behavior contradicts the fundamental principles of drive theory.