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A review of research on Schachter's theory of emotion and the misattribution of Arousal
Author(s) -
Cotton John L.
Publication year - 1981
Publication title -
european journal of social psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.609
H-Index - 111
eISSN - 1099-0992
pISSN - 0046-2772
DOI - 10.1002/ejsp.2420110403
Subject(s) - misattribution of memory , psychology , social psychology , arousal , attribution , cognitive dissonance , cognitive psychology , cognition , neuroscience
Schachter's two factor theory of emotion and the misattribution of arousal paradigm have been applied to perceptions of euphoria, anger, humour, fear, erotica, discomfort, and love. This paper attempts to review this research and assess both the theory and the misattribution paradigm. The classic Schachter and Singer (1962) study is reviewed, along with criticisms and later attempted replications. Other early research on Schachter's theory is also critqued. The reduction of fear through the misattribution of arousal is examined and its limitations noted. A plausible alternative explanation for many effects of the misattribution paradigm is presented. Research concerning the misattribution of arousal and cognitive dissonance, interpersonal attraction, helping behaviour, and aggression are reviewed and discussed. An overall assessment of Schachter's two factor theory and the misattribution paradigm is also presented. Schachter's (1964a, b) theory is not well supported by the research, but the available evidence has not necessarily disproven the theory either. The misattribution paradigm has proven to be very effective, yet the theoretical basis for this effect is still in doubt. Surprisingly, the most widely cited research is generally of limited value, while little known research has been of much greater significance.