Dutton and Aron tested the cognitive appraisal theory of emotion by arranging for either a male or female research assistant to approach males who were crossing either the Capilano Suspension Bridge 76 metres above a section of rapids or a wide, sturdy cedar bridge only 3 metres above a small stream. Participants were asked to complete a short task and told that they could contact the research assistant if they had any questions and were given the researcher's name and phone number. The results supported the cognitive-appraisal theory because ___________.
A)males that crossed the swaying anxiety-provoking bridge were more likely to be angry with the female research assistant
B)males that crossed the swaying anxiety-provoking bridge were more likely to later call the female research assistant
C)males that crossed the low sturdy bridge were more likely to have sexual imagery in their research responses
D)males that crossed the low sturdy bridge were more likely to later call the female research assistant

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The study found that males who crossed the more anxiety-inducing bridge (the Capilano Suspension Bridge) were more likely to misattribute their heightened physiological arousal (from the fear or anxiety of crossing the bridge) as attraction to the female research assistant, leading them to be more likely to call her later. This supports the cognitive appraisal theory of emotion, which suggests that people's emotions are determined by their appraisal of the situation.

Dutton and Aron Tested the Cognitive Appraisal Theory of Emotion