Psychology MCAT Practice Exam

Which emotion is part of the set of universal emotions recognized across cultures?

1. Jealousy

2. Fear

3. Shame

4. Guilt

The correct answer is: Fear

Fear is considered one of the universal emotions recognized across cultures due to its biological underpinnings and survival value. Research in psychology, particularly by Paul Ekman, supports the idea that certain emotions, including fear, are innate and universally expressed in similar ways regardless of cultural background. This is evident in the facial expressions associated with fear, such as widened eyes and a gaping mouth, which trigger a physiological response through the activation of the sympathetic nervous system, preparing the body for a fight-or-flight response. In contrast, emotions like jealousy, shame, and guilt are more complex and often shaped by cultural and social contexts. These emotions can vary significantly in expression and interpretation across different societies, as they are heavily influenced by individual experiences, relationships, and societal norms. Thus, while fear has a consistent biological basis and expression, the other emotions are more likely to differ in meaning and expression across diverse cultures.