opponent process theory of acquired motivation
a theory that a stimulus or event simultaneously arouses a primary affective state, which may be pleasurable or aversive, and an opponent (opposite) affective state, which serves to reduce the intensity of the primary state: These two states together constitute emotional experience. According to this theory, the opponent state has a long latency, a sluggish course of increase, and a sluggish course of decay after the initiating stimulus is removed, all of which lead to its domination for a period following removal of the stimulus. In contrast to the primary state, it is also strengthened through use and weakened through disuse. This theory sought to account for such diverse acquired motives as drug addiction, love, affection and social attachment, and cravings for sensory and aesthetic experiences. Also called opponent process theory of emotion; opponent process theory of motivation. [originated by Richard L. Solomon]