In Gestalt theory, what term describes the drive to maintain balance?

In Gestalt theory, what term describes the drive to maintain balance?

• A. Transference
• B. Catharsis
• C. Homeostasis
• D. Regression

Answer: (C)

In Gestalt thinking, behavior and perception are driven by the push to restore balance, a concept called homeostasis. When there’s a mismatch between the current state and what the organism needs, tension arises and the system seeks to reestablish a stable, whole experience by adjusting perception and action. This explains why we’re motivated to complete, organize, or resolve aspects of our experience into a coherent, balanced whole. The other terms come from different areas of psychology: transference involves projecting feelings onto a therapist, catharsis is about releasing psychoanalytic emotional tension, and regression is retreating to earlier developmental patterns.

In Gestalt thinking, behavior and perception are driven by the push to restore balance, a concept called homeostasis. When there’s a mismatch between the current state and what the organism needs, tension arises and the system seeks to reestablish a stable, whole experience by adjusting perception and action. This explains why we’re motivated to complete, organize, or resolve aspects of our experience into a coherent, balanced whole. The other terms come from different areas of psychology: transference involves projecting feelings onto a therapist, catharsis is about releasing psychoanalytic emotional tension, and regression is retreating to earlier developmental patterns.