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MENTAL MODEL · M3642

Drive Reduction Theory

Drive Reduction Theory
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-28

CORE DEFINITION

In psychology, a drive theory, theory of drives or drive doctrine is a theory that attempts to analyze, classify or define the psychological drives. A drive is an instinctual need that has the power of influencing the behavior of an individual; an "excitatory state produced by a homeostatic disturbance".

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

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In psychology, a drive theory, theory of drives or drive doctrine is a theory that attempts to analyze, classify or define the psychological drives. A drive is an instinctual need that has the power

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Drive Reduction Theory (Hull) posits that behavior is driven by internal drives (e.g., hunger, thirst) aimed at eliminating discomfort to restore homeostasis; learning occurs when drive reduction is reinforced.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drive_theoryZH · Explicit
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