Which one of the following theories states that emotion occurs as a result of physical arousal and labeling of the arousal based on cues from the surrounding environment?
Step 1: Recall Schachter-Singer theory (two-factor theory).
This theory proposes that emotions are produced by two components: (i) physiological arousal, and (ii) cognitive labeling of that arousal based on environmental context.
Step 2: Differentiate from other theories.
- The James-Lange theory suggests emotions arise from perception of physiological changes alone (e.g., "I feel afraid because I tremble").
- The Cannon-Bard theory states arousal and emotional experience occur simultaneously and independently.
- The Ekman-Friesen theory relates to universal facial expressions of emotions, not arousal labeling.
Step 3: Match with the question.
The question clearly matches Schachter-Singer theory since it emphasizes arousal {plus} labeling based on environmental cues.