Question

A survivalist has been in the forest for over two weeks and is out of food and water. In desperation, she has begun eating leaves and various insects and can think of nothing more than satisfying her hunger. Which of the following theories would best explain her motivation to eat these items?

A. Instinct theory
B. Drive-reduction theory
C. Incentive theory
D. Arousal theory
E. Yerkes-Dodson theory

Answer 1

The correct option is B. Drive-reduction theory.

The survivalist's motivation to eat leaves and insects in the forest due to extreme hunger is best explained by the Drive-reduction theory, which suggests that physiological needs create drives to be satisfied, thereby returning the body to homeostasis.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the given scenario where a survivalist in the forest turns to eating leaves and insects due to extreme hunger, the theory that best explains her motivation is B. Drive-reduction theory. This theory posits that a physiological need creates an uncomfortable state, leading to a psychological drive to reduce or satisfy that need. Hunger represents a physiological need for nutrients, and this need results in a drive that motivates the survivalist to eat whatever is available to restore homeostasis.

The drive-reduction theory is centered on the concept that our bodies strive to maintain homeostasis. The lack of food and water creates a physiological imbalance, causing the survivalist's body to signal an urgent need to eat, irrespective of the food source. This strong motivation to meet the basic need and return to homeostasis is a vivid illustration of how drive reduction operates as a fundamental motivation for behavior.