Lana is suddenly confronted by a snarling pit bull.Based on the James-Lange theory of emotion, Lana should report:
A)"My heart is pounding because I feel afraid."
B)"I feel afraid because my heart is pounding."
C)"The dog makes me feel afraid, and it makes my heart pound."
D)"My pounding heart means I am afraid because I interpret this as a dangerous situation."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the James-Lange theory of emotion, physiological arousal (such as heart pounding) precedes and causes the experience of emotion (such as fear). In other words, our bodily reactions to an event are what create our emotional experiences. Therefore, choice B is the best answer as it reflects the theory's idea that Lana feels afraid because her heart is pounding.

Lana Is Suddenly Confronted by a Snarling Pit Bull