Let’s break down the reasoning behind the correct answer step by step. This will help clarify how arousal theory applies to human behavior.
Step 1: What is Arousal Theory?
Arousal theory explains that individuals seek to maintain an optimal level of arousal—a state of mental and physical alertness.
- Low arousal (boredom): Individuals seek excitement or stimulation to elevate arousal levels.
- High arousal (stress or overexcitement): Individuals aim to reduce stimulation, seeking peace or relaxation.
Step 2: Analyze the Answer Options
Option A: “We become accustomed to boredom and learn to enjoy it.”
- Analysis:
- Suggests adapting to low arousal and enjoying it.
- Arousal theory emphasizes seeking stimulation when bored, not adapting to it.
- Not aligned with arousal theory.
Option B: “We become accustomed to excitement and learn to enjoy it.”
- Analysis:
- Implies individuals adjust to high arousal, which is not consistent with the theory.
- Arousal theory focuses on balancing extremes rather than adjusting to one state.
- Not aligned with arousal theory.
Option C: “When we are bored we look for excitement; when we are overexcited we wish for more peace.”
- Analysis:
- Directly reflects the core principle of arousal theory:
- Seeking excitement during boredom (low arousal).
- Seeking peace when overexcited (high arousal).
- Perfectly aligned with arousal theory.
- Directly reflects the core principle of arousal theory:
Option D: “When we are sleepy we should sleep; when we are hungry we should eat.”
- Analysis:
- Focuses on addressing basic physiological needs rather than balancing mental or emotional arousal.
- Unrelated to arousal theory.
Step 3: Choose the Best Answer
Option C accurately represents the behavior described in arousal theory: balancing arousal by seeking excitement or peace, depending on the situation.
Conclusion
The correct answer is:
C. When we are bored we look for excitement; when we are overexcited we wish for more peace.
This option best illustrates the principles of arousal theory and human behavior.
