When seeing a couple warmly kiss and embrace,observers may vicariously experience and mentally simulate the romantic interaction.Some researchers would say that the reaction of the observers is partially attributable to the activation of
A) instinctive drift.
B) a fixed-interval reinforcement schedule.
C) mirror neurons.
D) cognitive maps.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mirror neurons are activated when an individual observes someone else performing an action. They are particularly important in social cognition and can lead to the vicarious experience of emotions and actions. Thus, the activation of mirror neurons could explain why observers may mentally simulate the romantic interaction they are witnessing. A and B are not relevant to this scenario, and D is a cognitive phenomenon related to navigation and spatial awareness, which is not applicable here.

When Seeing a Couple Warmly Kiss and Embrace,observers May Vicariously