Which theory proposes that a physiological reaction leads to labeling of the emotion?

• A. James-Lange theory
• B. Cannon-Bard theory
• C. Schachter-Singer two-factor theory
• D. Lazarus cognitive-motivational theory

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that emotion follows from interpreting our bodily arousal. According to this view, a stimulus triggers physical changes—like a racing heart, tense muscles, or adrenaline—and we label what we’re feeling based on those bodily cues and the surrounding situation. So the emotion isn’t produced first by the mind and then visible in the body; rather, the body’s response comes first and the mind identifies it as a specific emotion. For example, if you suddenly feel your heart pounding and your hands sweating after seeing a bear, you interpret those signals as fear.

This is James-Lange theory. It contrasts with theories that say arousal and emotion occur simultaneously, or that emotion arises from a combination of arousal and cognitive labeling, or from appraisal of the situation independent of bodily signals.