Emotional arousal related to the height of a bridge can be misinterpreted as sexual attraction.

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This phenomenon is known as misattribution of arousal and can occur when individuals are exposed to activities or situations that cause physiological arousal (such as fear or excitement). The individual may incorrectly attribute the arousal to sexual attraction towards someone who happens to be present or nearby. Research has shown that individuals who cross a high, unstable bridge (compared to a stable bridge) report higher levels of sexual attraction towards a confederate who they interact with afterwards. This suggests that the arousal caused by fear of heights is being misattributed to potential sexual attraction towards the confederate.

Emotional Arousal Related to the Height of a Bridge Can