Behavioral Approach System (BAS)

The behavioral approach system (BAS) is a theoretical motivational system from reinforcement sensitivity theory (RST), proposed by psychologist Jeffrey Gray. It describes the brain’s tendency to move toward rewards and goals—achievement, social connection, positive feedback, novelty, or other sources of perceived benefit. When BAS is activated, we often experience increased energy, goal focus, and motivation to pursue opportunities. Differences in BAS sensitivity may influence how strongly we respond to rewards and how intensely we pursue goals and opportunities. This is a conceptual model that has been linked to reward-related brain circuits and motivational processes, but it’s not a single brain structure or diagnostic category. It also helps explain patterns of behavior and emotional activation. Also see Reward Sensitivity.