Anxious uncertainty and reactive approach motivation (RAM).

• DOI: 10.1037/a0019701
• Publication Date: 2010-06-21T11:54:17Z
• Authors: Ian McGregor; Kyle Nash; Nikki Mann; Curtis E. Phills
• Keywords: Salience (neuroscience); Prejudice (legal term)

In 4 experiments anxious uncertainty threats caused reactive approach motivation (RAM). Studies 1 and 2, academic RAM as assessed by behavioral neuroscience implicit measures of motivation. Study 3 the effect a relational threat on approach-motivated personal projects in participants' everyday lives was mediated idealism those projects. different heightened manipulated salience ideals. Results suggest account for idealistic ideological reactions defense literature. Speculative implications are suggested understanding diverse social clinical phenomena ranging from worldview defense, prejudice, meaning making to narcissism, hypomania, aggression.