Suppose that Sergej has just asked Georgia whether she would like to study with him for an upcoming English exam. Georgia is struggling in the class, and she knows that Sergej is an excellent English student, and therefore she enthusiastically agrees. Meanwhile, Sergej interprets Georgia's enthusiasm as a sign that she might have a crush on him. He suggests that the two of them grab a bite to eat together before studying. Georgia is very attractive," he says to himself, "so why not?" Georgia, on the other hand, is completely clueless about Sergej's thoughts and says to herself, "Well, that is so nice of him to think that I might be hungry; what a thoughtful study partner!" The fact that Sergej and Georgia interpret things so differently in this scenario is MOST consistent with ____.
A)error management theory
B)the omission bias
C)reactance theory
D)the status quo bias

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Error management theory explains how individuals interpret signals or behaviors differently based on evolutionary-adapted biases. In this scenario, Sergej misinterprets Georgia's enthusiasm as a sign of romantic interest, which is consistent with error management theory's explanation of how men might overinterpret signals to avoid missing a potential mating opportunity.

Suppose That Sergej Has Just Asked Georgia Whether She Would