Drive Reduction Theory

Throughout the centuries, many Psychologists, Sociologists, and Scientists have tried to explain why we are motivated to do certain things. Drive Reduction Theory is a good place to start if you are interested in learning about motivation.

The Drive Reduction Theory started with Sigmund Freud and the Psychoanalysis Theory. Of course, that’s an entire other concept. In basic terms, Drive Reduction Theory claims we are motivated to do things in order to reach homeostasis. If you do not know what homeostasis is, according to Wiktionary, “The ability of a system or living organism to adjust its internal environment to maintain a stable equilibrium; such as the ability of warm-blooded animals to maintain a constant temperature.”

For example, using Drive Reduction Theory to explain why we eat: hunger is a drive, which can grow, making you increasingly uncomfortable (away from homeostasis). In order to reach homeostasis again, you must eat. After eating, the strength of the hunger drive is reduced, returning the body to homeostasis.

Drive Reduction Theory is based all around biological and psychological drives. The problem with Drive Reduction Theory is that it does not explain why we put tension on ourselves, such as riding a roller-coaster. It also does not explain why we are relieved from pressure when we get a paycheck. The paycheck is not a biological or psychological need.