Arrange the following stages of motivation in order.

(A) Unsatisfied need

(B) Search behavior

(C) Drives

(D) Reduction of tension

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

The correct option is (A), (C), (B), (D).

The motivation process is a dynamic cycle that begins when an individual experiences a physiological or psychological deficiency and ends when that deficiency is resolved. The step-by-step logical sequence of these stages is explained below:

1. Unsatisfied Need (A): The motivation process always begins with an unsatisfied need. This is a state of deprivation where an individual feels that something is lacking (for example, feeling hungry or needing safety), which acts as the initial stimulus.

2. Drives (C): An unsatisfied need creates internal tension within the individual. This tension stimulates "drives"—action-oriented thrusts or strong urges—which prompt the individual to seek ways to relieve the discomfort caused by the need.

3. Search Behavior (B): Driven by the urge to satisfy the need, the individual actively engages in search behavior. This involves exploring courses of action, looking for resources, or choosing paths that will lead to achieving the goal of satisfying the need.

4. Reduction of Tension (D): Once the search behavior is successful and the goal is achieved, the need is satisfied. Consequently, the internal tension generated at the beginning of the cycle is relieved, leading to a state of equilibrium.

By arranging these stages in their proper psychological sequence, we get the order: (A) Unsatisfied need → (C) Drives → (B) Search behavior → (D) Reduction of tension.