Adaptive Changes in Allocation of Mental Resources

      When in disruption, a person’s mental resources will automatically be distributed toward understanding the violation and restoring equilibrium (Tolman, 1932). There will be little thought to the possibility of overcommitting resources to the current disruption. Also, as all resources are allocated to restore equilibrium, there are no resources dedicated to the remainder of the individual’s life (Conway, Meares, & Standart, 2004; Cropanzano, Citera & Howes, 1995). Satiation is the only goal at the time of a disruption. As described by Lewin (1951), there will be little or no economy of action where all resources are applied, regardless if all resources are actually needed.