Approach Motivation / Approach Activation / Approach Behavior

Approach motivation, activation, and behavior terms describe the drive and actions that move us toward something perceived as rewarding or desirable — achievement, events, objects, social connection, learning, novelty, recognition, possibilities, or no target. Approach motivation refers to the internal drive or tendency to pursue these goals and rewards — the psychological pull toward opportunity. Approach activation describes how strongly that motivational system is turned on — high activation produces greater energy and focus on pursuing goals, while low activation reflects reduced drive. Approach behavior is the observable action that results — the actual steps we take toward the goal or reward. In psychological models, these concepts are linked to systems that support goal-directed behavior and reward responsiveness. We vary in how sensitive our systems are, which can influence patterns of energy, initiative, and emotional activation. In reinforcement sensitivity models, these concepts are linked to the behavioral approach system (BAS) that regulates goal-directed behavior and reward responsiveness. The opposite of avoidance motivation, it can be affected by positive (excitement) and negative (anger) emotions.