an active searching process, performed consciously, that precedes consummatory behavior (see consummaiory response). It is thought to be indicative of desire, and influenced by prior experiences. it is highly flexible, malleable, and particularly in mating behavior, helps establish or maintain sexual interaction prior to copulation. 2. also refers to feeding activity, which is influenced in part by the central nervous system, including the hypothalamus in the brain. Lesions, for example, lesions in the ventromedial nucleus, may result in excessive eating. Conversely, lesions in the nuclei within the lat
APPETITIVE BEHAVIOR I: “A person exhibiting appetitive behavior would search for food endlessly, until he or she could find it. “