Which of the following is an element of emotion?

• A. A stimulus
• B. Physical arousal
• C. A facial expression
• D. The amygdala

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that emotions are complex psychological states that involve three distinct components: a subjective experience, a physiological response, and a behavioral or expressive response.
2. Recognize that physical arousal is a key element of emotion. This refers to the physiological response that occurs in the body, such as increased heart rate, sweating, or adrenaline release, which is often triggered by the autonomic nervous system.
3. Consider the role of the amygdala, a part of the brain that is crucial in processing emotions, especially fear and pleasure. It helps in evaluating the emotional significance of stimuli and generating appropriate emotional responses.
4. Acknowledge that facial expressions are a behavioral or expressive component of emotion. They are visible manifestations of emotions and can communicate feelings to others.
5. Identify that a stimulus is often the trigger for an emotional response, but it is not an element of emotion itself. Instead, it is the external or internal event that initiates the emotional process.