Mario ate leftover food on Saturday morning that had not been refrigerated properly the night before. Later that day, he became ill. To this day, many years later, Mario refuses to eat leftover food. Which term describes his condition?
A) Sensitization
B) Phobia
C) Taste aversion
D) Habituation

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mario's refusal to eat leftover food after experiencing illness is an example of taste aversion. This occurs when a person or animal associates the taste of a certain food with illness, leading them to avoid that food in the future. It is a survival mechanism that helps prevent us from consuming potentially harmful substances. Sensitization refers to an increase in responsiveness to a stimulus over time, while a phobia is an irrational fear or anxiety towards a specific object or situation. Habituation refers to a decrease in responsiveness to a stimulus over time. None of these terms accurately describe Mario's situation.

Mario Ate Leftover Food on Saturday Morning That Had Not