action tendency

an urge to carry out certain expressive or instrumental behaviors that is linked to a specific emotion. For example, the action tendency of fear involves an urge to escape, and that of anger involves an urge to attack. Some theorists argue that the action tendency of an emotional reaction should be regarded as its essential defining characteristic. Compare action readiness.

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Psychology term of the day

January 30th 2025

alternative behavior completion

a technique in behavior therapy for extinguishing unwanted habits by substituting an incompatible behavior for the nondesired behavior (e.g., substituting nail care for nail biting). This technique can be practiced in vivo (see in vivo desensitization) or imaginally in the therapy session or assigned as homework. It is often used as an alternative to mild aversion therapy. See also competing response training.