Reversal theory

 

Reversal theory describes how humans interpret arousal and the direct relationship it has on behaviour. Different levels of felt arousal may invoke a variety of different emotions (Apter, 1989). Changes in hedonic tone (how pleasurable you view events/ emotions) can be related to the amount of arousal you are seeking in any particular context (Apter, 1989).

 

There are eight metamotivational states in reversal theory. Metamotivational states are mental states which are concerned with how athletes experience their motives (Apter, 1989). Four are somatic and four are transactional states. The somatic states are concerned with how individuals are interpreting arousal from a personal perspective (Apter, 1989). The transactional states concentrate on how external influences are affecting interpretation of arousal. The somatic states are telic, paratelic, conformist and negativistic. The transactional states are alloic, autic, mastery and sympathy.

 

The paratelic and telic somatic states are particular important when describing reversal theory. The telic state is where behaviour is direct towards a serious goal (Apter, 1989). People in the telic state tend to avoid arousal (Apter, 1989). The paratelic state is where people respond to sensation and make on the spot decisions; a less serious free flowing state of mind. People in this state tend to be arousal seeking (Apter, 1989). The arousal you are seeking or avoiding will affect your hedonic tone either causing you to view a situation as pleasant or unpleasant.

 

This graph show the relationship between arousal levels, hepatic tone and personal emotions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                          Figure 1.

 

                                                                                           Figure 1 .(Apter, 1989)