Which theory states that arousal generally refers to being alert or engaged, with motivation affecting arousal?

• A. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
• B. Incentive Theory
• C. Optimum Arousal Theory
• D. Drives

Answer: (C)

Arousal is the state of being alert or engaged, and motivation can tune that arousal up or down to meet a task’s demands. Optimum Arousal Theory says there’s a sweet spot of arousal that leads to the best performance, and our level of motivation helps push us toward or away from that level. When a task is easy, a bit more arousal can boost performance; when a task is hard, too much arousal can hinder it. This idea connects arousal directly to motivation, unlike Maslow’s hierarchy, which is about a progression of needs; Drives theory focuses on reducing internal tension from unmet needs, and Incentive theory centers on external rewards as motivators rather than how arousal is managed.