Which term best describes internal bodily states driving action to reduce discomfort?

• A. Homeostasis
• B. Drive Theory of Motivation
• C. Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs
• D. Incentive Theory of Motivation

Answer: (B)

Internal bodily states that push you to take action to relieve discomfort are drives. Drive theory explains that physiological needs create an arousal or drive that motivates behaviors aimed at restoring balance. For example, hunger generates a drive to seek food, motivating you to eat to reduce the uncomfortable state.

Homeostasis is the broader idea of maintaining internal balance, but the term that describes the pushing force behind motivated action is a drive. Maslow’s hierarchy maps out levels of needs rather than the mechanism of motivation, and Incentive Theory emphasizes external rewards over internal bodily states.