AP PSYCHOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The arousal theory of motivation suggests that people are driven to perform actions in order to maintain an optimum level of physiological arousal.

Detailed explanation-2: -Optimal arousal theory posits that there is an ideal level of anxiety or stress that leads to peak performance. This level is different for every individual, and can change depending on the task at hand. Too much or too little arousal will lead to suboptimal performance.

Detailed explanation-3: -Optimal arousal is a psychological construct referring to a level of mental stimulation at which physical performance, learning, or temporary feelings of wellbeing are maximized (Smith 1990). It can also be described as the degree of energy release and the intensity of readiness.

Detailed explanation-4: -Researchers Robert Yerkes and John Dodson studied the relationship between the level of arousal and performance in a task, and their finding is known as the Yerkes-Dodson Law. The Yerkes-Dodson Law states that for easy tasks, the higher the level of physiological or mental arousal, the higher the performance.

Detailed explanation-5: -The arousal theory of motivation establishes that individuals have an arousal level fit for them. Therefore, people seek out stimulation when these levels drop below their optimal level, and seek soothing or relaxing activities when their arousal level is too high.