Final answer:
The correct answer is 'e. both a and b only,' as a person high in the need for cognition enjoys deep thinking and analysis, making them good at evaluating the authenticity of information and less likely to be influenced by peripheral cues.
Step-by-step explanation:
A person high in the need for cognition is likely to be good at discerning the credibility of persuasive information and resistant to being persuaded by peripheral cues. This suggests they have a strong inclination towards engaging in and enjoying thinking, problem-solving, and analyzing information. For such an individual, authenticity and quality of the information presented are pivotal. They prefer the central route to persuasion, which uses logical, fact-based arguments, rather than the peripheral route that relies on less substantial cues like emotions or celebrity endorsements.
Choice (a), "They are good at determining the authenticity of persuasive information," aligns with the definition of someone who is high in the need for cognition, as they are more inclined to process information deeply. Option (b), "They are unlikely to switch away from a disappointing outcome," does not directly relate to the concept of need for cognition. While it might be inferred that someone who enjoys deep thinking might persist with a task or belief even in the face of disappointment, this is not a definitive characteristic of high need for cognition. Choice (c), "They are more likely to be persuaded by peripheral cues," is contrary to the concept of need for cognition. Therefore, the correct answer to the question is e. both a and b only.