Imagine that your house is on fire and you are afraid. Which of the following explanations BEST represents the James-Lange theory?
A)"I'm shaking because I'm afraid."
B)"I'm afraid because I'm shaking."
C)"My shaking must be due to fear, since my house is on fire."
D)"My fear is a built-in, primary reaction to a dangerous situation."

Question

Imagine that your house is on fire and you are afraid. Which of the following explanations BEST represents the James-Lange theory? ​
A)"I'm shaking because I'm afraid."
B)"I'm afraid because I'm shaking."
C)"My shaking must be due to fear, since my house is on fire."
D)"My fear is a built-in, primary reaction to a dangerous situation."

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The James-Lange theory posits that emotions occur as a result of physiological reactions to events. According to this theory, you would interpret your physiological reactions (such as shaking) as fear after you notice them happening. Thus, "I'm afraid because I'm shaking" best represents this theory.

Imagine That Your House Is on Fire and You Are