Which of the following statements is true about intense emotions?

• A. Intense emotions never influence physiological responses.
• B. Intense emotions always lead to improved memory for all details of an event.
• C. Intense emotions can temporarily impair rational decision-making.
• D. Intense emotions are always consciously controlled.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the nature of intense emotions and their effects on the body and mind. Intense emotions often trigger physiological responses such as increased heart rate, sweating, or hormonal changes.
2. Step 2: Recognize that intense emotions do not always improve memory for all details. While they can enhance memory for central aspects of an event, they may impair memory for peripheral details.
3. Step 3: Consider how intense emotions affect decision-making. Intense emotions can sometimes impair rational decision-making temporarily by influencing cognitive processes and leading to impulsive or biased choices.
4. Step 4: Note that intense emotions are not always consciously controlled. Many emotional responses occur automatically and can be outside of conscious awareness or control.
5. Step 5: Based on these points, identify the statement that aligns with psychological research: intense emotions can temporarily impair rational decision-making.