Question

Arrange the following series of events from start to end as per the Schachter-Singer theory of emotion:
A. Perception of the environmental event which might result in emotion.
B. Interpretation of the reason for the generalized arousal state.
C. A generalized state of bodily arousal which is perceived.
D. Occurance of the event in the environment.
E. Felt emotion based on reasons given for generalized arousal state.
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. C - B - A - E - D
• B. B - C - E - A - D
• C. D - B - A - C - E
• D. D - A - C - B - E

Hint:

Remember that in the Schachter-Singer theory, the physical arousal (C) occurs before we interpret the reason for it (B). The cognitive interpretation (B) must precede the final felt emotion (E).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks us to arrange the sequential stages of experiencing an emotion according to the Schachter-Singer Two-Factor Theory of Emotion.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• The Schachter-Singer theory proposes that emotion is the result of both physiological arousal and a cognitive label we apply to explain that arousal.

• D. Occurrence of the event in the environment: First, an external event or stimulus occurs in the environment (e.g., encountering a growling dog).

• A. Perception of the environmental event which might result in emotion: The individual notices and cognitively perceives this threatening or significant environmental event.

• C. A generalized state of bodily arousal which is perceived: This perception triggers a generalized physiological sympathetic reaction (e.g., rapid heart rate, trembling), which is consciously felt.

• B. Interpretation of the reason for the generalized arousal state: The individual looks to the environment to identify the source of their physiological arousal and cognitively labels the state (e.g., "My heart is beating because of that scary dog").

• E. Felt emotion based on reasons given for generalized arousal state: Finally, based on this cognitive attribution, the individual experiences the subjective conscious feeling of the emotion (e.g., feeling fear).

• This step-by-step cognitive-physiological process corresponds to the sequence: D $\rightarrow$ A $\rightarrow$ C $\rightarrow$ B $\rightarrow$ E.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct order of events according to the Schachter-Singer theory is D - A - C - B - E.