AP Psychology Practice Test

What is achievement motivation?

1. A resting period after orgasm

2. A desire for significant accomplishment and mastering skills or ideas

3. The peak of sexual excitement

4. A hormonal peak promoting sexual receptivity

The correct answer is: A desire for significant accomplishment and mastering skills or ideas

Achievement motivation refers to the intrinsic drive to pursue and attain goals, particularly in the context of mastering skills, overcoming challenges, and achieving a sense of accomplishment. This motivation is characterized by the desire to meet personal standards of excellence and to engage in tasks that require effort, dedication, and perseverance. Individuals with high achievement motivation often seek out opportunities to demonstrate their capabilities, take on difficult tasks, and experience the satisfaction that comes from achieving their objectives. This drive can influence various aspects of life, including education, sports, and career progression, as it encourages individuals to stretch their limits and continuously improve. The other options relate to different aspects of human experience, specifically sexual function and arousal, which do not encompass the concept of achievement motivation. Hence, this choice directly aligns with the definition and understanding of what achievement motivation entails in psychology.