Valence, in psychology, refers to the perceived value of an outcome or stimulus, as either positive (desirable) or negative (undesirable). Stemming from valence theory, this concept is central to understanding motivation, as individuals seek to approach pleasant experiences while avoiding unpleasant ones. Beyond valence theory, psychological theories such as affect theory, expectancy-value theory, and goal theory expand our understanding of how emotions, expectations, and goals influence valence. Cognitive processes, neurological structures, and measurement techniques further contribute to unraveling the multifaceted nature of valence.
