According to the James-Lange theory of emotion, which of the following best describes how emotions are experienced?

• A. Emotions and physiological responses occur independently and do not influence each other.
• B. Cognitive appraisal of a situation leads to both emotion and physiological arousal simultaneously.
• C. Physiological arousal occurs first, and then the emotion is experienced as a result of interpreting that arousal.
• D. Emotions are experienced first, which then lead to physiological changes in the body.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the James-Lange theory of emotion, which proposes a specific sequence in how emotions are experienced.
2. Step 2: Recognize that according to this theory, an external stimulus first causes a physiological response in the body, such as increased heart rate or sweating.
3. Step 3: The theory suggests that the brain then interprets these physiological changes, and this interpretation is what leads to the conscious experience of emotion.
4. Step 4: Contrast this with other theories where emotion might occur before physiological changes or where both happen simultaneously.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the James-Lange theory emphasizes that physiological arousal precedes and causes the emotional experience.