Final answer:
The Schachter-Singer two-factor theory of emotion proposes that emotions are the outcome of physiological arousal combined with the cognitive interpretation of that arousal.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Schachter-Singer two-factor theory of emotion, also known as the arousal-cognition theory, emphasizes that emotion is the result of the interaction between physiological arousal and cognitive processes. This theory contends that physiological arousal is interpreted in the context of each situation which then leads to the emotional experience. For example, seeing a snake might trigger a physiological response that, when interpreted as danger, results in the emotion of fear. Conversely, if the same physiological arousal were labeled differently, such as excitement during a thrilling activity, the emotion experienced might be joy. Thus, according to the Schachter-Singer theory, it's the cognitive appraisal of the situation that dictates the type of emotion we experience in response to physiological cues.