Question

Imagine you are walking alone late at night and hear footsteps behind you. think about your emotional reaction to this situation. consider the major theories of emotion: james-lange theory, cannon-bard theory, and schacter-singer theory. from the perspective of these major theories of emotion, describe how each would predict the sequence of events that would occur as you experience a reaction to this situation. rubric

Answer 1

1. James-Lange theory- According to this theory, experiencing a situation leads to a physiological response in the body. Our interpretation of these emotional responses or sensations in turn lead to physical reactions. Therefore, from this theory, when you walk alone late at night and hear footsteps behind you, you will either feel afraid or unphased, depending on whether or not you experience physical arousal and how you interpret this physical arousal. 

2. Cannon-Bard theory: According to this theory, emotional responses result from interpretations or feelings, as well as bodily responses to external stimuli simultaneously. Therefore, from this theory, when you walk alone late at night and hear footsteps behind you, you will either feel afraid if you experience physical arousal as well as thoughts of fear at the same time.

3. Schacter-Singer theory: According to this theory, emotional responses result from physical arousal and a cognitive label. Therefore, from this theory, when you walk alone late at night and hear footsteps behind you, you will experience fear if you feel physically aroused (pounding heart, shallow breathing, etc.) as well as if you put a label on the situation such as: "I am being followed by an attacker or someone dangerous."