Question

Trait-anxious people are more likely to interpret ambiguous verbal information in a negative way.

A) Overly optimistic
B) Neutral
C) Positive
D) Negative

Answer 1

Trait-anxious people, often high in neuroticism, are prone to interpret ambiguous verbal information negatively, with the correct answer to the question being D) Negative.

Step-by-step explanation:

Trait-anxious people are individuals who have a higher propensity to experience anxiety and other negative emotions. The term neuroticism is often associated with trait anxiety, which involves a tendency to interpret situations more negatively. The research by Watson and Clark (1984) suggests that those with higher levels of neuroticism are more likely to experience feelings of being anxious and unhappy.

In relation to the question, trait-anxious individuals interpreting ambiguous verbal information would most likely perceive it in a negative manner. Therefore, the correct answer is D) Negative.