Question

you are hiking in the woods when you hear a rattle in the bushes. before you can think about it, your heart starts to pound, you begin to tremble, and you take off running. you notice this unique set of physiological changes and then conclude that you are afraid of encountering a snake. this scenario is an example of which theory of emotion?

Answer 1

The described experience when hearing a rattle in the bushes and having a physiological reaction before feeling fear is an example of the James-Lange theory of emotion, which states that emotions arise from physiological reactions.

Step-by-step explanation:

James-Lange Theory of Emotion

The scenario you described, where the physiological response of a pounding heart and trembling upon hearing a rattle in the bushes leads you to conclude that you are afraid, is an example of the James-Lange theory of emotion. According to this theory, you first experience physiological arousal, such as increased heart rate and respiration, which then leads to the identification of an emotion - in this case, fear. This theory posits that different physiological responses can lead to the recognition of different emotions.

The Physiology of Fear

The sympathetic nervous system is responsible for the fight-or-flight response you experience. This response prepares your body to either engage with the threat or to escape from it as quickly as possible. The resulting physiological changes, like the racing heart and trembling, are precursors to the emotion of fear according to the James-Lange theory.