Terror management theory proposes that _____________ is the primary motive for underlying behavior, and all other motives can be traced back to this one.
A) ensuring the continuation of one's life
B) the desire to procreate
C) the avoidance of fear
D) the desire to die

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to terror management theory, the primary motive for underlying human behavior is the avoidance of the anxiety associated with the awareness of our own mortality. Therefore, the desire to ensure the continuation of one's life is the most fundamental and overarching motive, as all other motives can be traced back to it. Procreation, for example, is a means of extending one's genetic legacy and ensuring that one's offspring will continue to live on after one's own death. Similarly, the desire to avoid fear or danger is driven by the need to protect oneself in order to continue living. The desire to die, on the other hand, would be incompatible with the fundamental motive underlying terror management theory.

Terror Management Theory Proposes That _____________ Is the Primary Motive