While Walter is out riding, his horse suddenly rears up when a small animal scurries across the path. Based on the Cannon-Bard theory of emotion, Walter should report,
A)"I feel terrified because my heart is racing."
B)"My heart is racing because I am terrified."
C)"My racing heart must mean I'm terrified because this situation is dangerous."
D)"The rearing of the horse makes my heart race and it makes me feel terrified."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Cannon-Bard theory posits that emotional and physiological reactions to stimuli occur simultaneously and independently, so Walter would experience the racing heart and the feeling of terror at the same time, not one causing the other.

While Walter Is Out Riding, His Horse Suddenly Rears Up