Final answer:
The Trobriand Islanders use protective rituals during certain events such as the kula ring exchange voyages, as observed by Bronislaw Malinowski, to reduce anxiety and manage stress, making them an example of a society that uses these practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Trobriand Islanders are indeed an example of a society that uses protective ritual practices. The work of Bronislaw Malinowski in the early 20th century provided insights into their extensive use of magical spells and rituals. Malinowski observed religious rituals relating to the kula ring, where men would partake in dangerous voyages to exchange ritual items and perform complex rituals to manage the anxiety associated with the unforeseeable nature of these trips. Similarly, in contemporary society, George Gmelch's study on “baseball magic” revealed that athletes use rituals to cope with stress and improve performance.