If you see a grizzly bear in the woods and run away in fear, which of the following best describes your emotional response in terms of the James-Lange theory of emotion?
A) I run because I'm feeling scared.
B) I'm scared because my heart is beating fast and I'm running away.
C) I interpret this situation as a dangerous one therefore I am scared and I run.
D) I'm scared because I interpret my arousal level as fear when a bear is present.
E) I'm scared because I've learned to associate grizzlies with danger.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The James-Lange theory of emotion suggests that emotions occur as a result of physiological reactions to events. In this case, the theory would argue that you feel scared (emotion) because you notice your physiological responses (heart beating fast, running away) to seeing the grizzly bear.

If You See a Grizzly Bear in the Woods and Run