The arousal theory of motivation would be most helpful for explaining why
A) recreational skydivers jump out of airplanes.
B) hungry fishermen venture across dangerous ocean waters.
C) starving prisoners are preoccupied with thoughts of food.
D) sexually active teens learn to practice effective birth control.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The arousal theory of motivation states that people are motivated to maintain an optimal level of arousal, which means they seek out activities that bring them to their preferred level of stimulation. Recreational skydivers are likely seeking out the intense physical sensations and adrenaline rush that comes with jumping out of an airplane, which would increase their arousal levels to their preferred level of stimulation.

The Arousal Theory of Motivation Would Be Most Helpful for Explaining