University Test 3

Question 1

Rory and Paris live in the same dorm and are constantly bumping into each other in the halls. As a result, they begin to develop a close friendship despite their earlier animosity.

Answer 1

Proximity and Attraction: People are more likely to form friendships or relationships with individuals who are physically close to them, due to frequent interactions.

In this case, Rory and Paris’s proximity to each other in the dorm leads to more interactions, which helps them overcome their initial differences and build a friendship. The more they see each other, the more familiar and comfortable they become, increasing the likelihood of developing a positive relationship. This is based on Westgate’s study, where people living near each other in an apartment building were more likely to become friends.

Question 2

In the show Psych, Shawn has a habit of casually walking into the same diner every day. Over time, he becomes more fond of the food and the staff, even recommending the diner to others.

Answer 2

The Mere Exposure Effect: The more often a person is exposed to something, the more they tend to like it, even if they initially had no strong feelings toward it.

Shawn’s regular visits to the diner lead to repeated exposure to the food, atmosphere, and staff. Over time, this leads to a positive association, demonstrating how familiarity increases liking, even if the initial impression was neutral or unfamiliar. This phenomenon was studied by Zajonc, who found that repeated exposure can increase positive feelings toward previously neutral stimuli.

Question 3

In Bones, Dr. Brennan prefers to work alone and is uncomfortable with emotional intimacy, which causes tension in her relationship with Booth. She often pushes him away when he tries to get closer.

Answer 3

Avoidant Attachment: Individuals with avoidant attachment styles tend to avoid emotional intimacy and may feel uncomfortable relying on others. They value independence and may have difficulty trusting others.

Dr. Brennan’s avoidant attachment style is evident in her reluctance to form a closer emotional bond with Booth. She resists intimacy, preferring to keep her distance, even though she cares about him. This reflects the avoidant attachment style where individuals fear dependency and intimacy, often pushing others away to maintain emotional distance.

Question 4

In Gilmore Girls, Rory’s relationship with her mother, Lorelai, is characterized by a deep emotional bond, with both relying on each other for support and comfort in difficult times.

Answer 4

Communal Relationship: A relationship in which individuals feel a strong sense of responsibility for one another, with an emphasis on emotional support and mutual care.

Rory and Lorelai’s relationship exemplifies a communal relationship. They are deeply emotionally connected, often providing each other with support and sharing in one another’s lives. There is no expectation of immediate reciprocity in their exchanges; rather, they simply care for each other, which is characteristic of communal relationships.

Question 5

In The Mentalist, Patrick Jane often uses charm to get people to open up to him, offering them help in exchange for useful information.

Answer 5

Exchange Relationship: A relationship based on the exchange of resources or favors, with an expectation of reciprocity.

Patrick Jane’s interactions with others in The Mentalist are a perfect example of an exchange relationship. He offers something of value—usually advice or assistance—in exchange for information or cooperation. These relationships are typically more transactional and less emotionally invested than communal ones.

Question 6

In Community, the study group members each bring different skills to the table, and while they don’t always get along, they each feel a sense of obligation to help one another.

Answer 6

Social Exchange Theory: A theory suggesting that people evaluate relationships based on the rewards they provide, seeking to maximize satisfaction by favoring relationships where the benefits outweigh the costs.

The study group in Community operates based on social exchange theory. Each member brings something valuable to the group—be it knowledge, humor, or personal connections. They remain a group because the rewards (friendship, help with schoolwork, etc.) outweigh the costs of conflict and differing personalities.

Question 7

In Burn Notice, Michael Weston relies on Fiona to help him out of tough situations, and despite their past conflicts, they continue to work together because they each contribute needed skills to the operation, which keeps things between them balanced.

Answer 7

Equity Theory: A theory stating that people strive to maintain fairness in relationships by ensuring that the ratio of rewards to costs is similar for both partners.

Michael and Fiona’s relationship reflects equity theory. Despite their differences, they continue to work together because they maintain a fair balance of contributions to their partnership. Michael relies on Fiona’s skills and knowledge, and Fiona values Michael’s tactical abilities. They both contribute to the relationship in ways that ensure fairness and balance, maintaining mutual satisfaction.

Question 8

In Phineas and Ferb, the two brothers always come up with new and exciting plans, but they find that their sister, Candace, constantly tries to ruin their fun. Despite her attempts, Candace still craves their attention and approval.

Answer 8

Anxious-Ambivalent Attachment: Individuals with this attachment style desire closeness and intimacy but also fear that their partner may not love them or may leave them. This anxiety can sometimes drive them to act in ways that push others away.

Candace’s behavior toward her brothers in Phineas and Ferb demonstrates an anxious-ambivalent attachment style. She craves attention and approval from them but is simultaneously frustrated by their lack of recognition for her feelings. Her anxious attachment makes her both clingy and overly sensitive to the possibility of rejection, causing her to push for attention in negative ways.

Question 9

In Bones, the team works closely together on cases, and Dr. Brennan’s past experiences with abandonment shape her ability to form intimate relationships in the present.

Answer 9

Attachment Theory (Bowlby): This theory suggests that early experiences with caregivers shape how individuals form relationships later in life. Secure attachments with caregivers lead to healthy, trusting relationships, while insecure attachments can result in difficulty with intimacy and trust.

Dr. Brennan’s attachment style reflects Bowlby’s attachment theory. Her past experiences with abandonment have led her to be more distant and independent in her adult relationships. Despite her professional success, her insecure attachment early in life makes it difficult for her to form intimate, trusting relationships with others.

Question 10

Shawn and Gus from Psych meet a woman at a party who shares all of their interests, from obscure 80s movies to their favorite type of food. They find themselves increasingly attracted to her.

Answer 10

Similarity and Attraction: The tendency for individuals to be more attracted to others who share similar beliefs, values, interests, and even physical traits.

Explanation: When people share common interests and experiences, it leads to increased attraction because it creates a sense of validation and mutual understanding. Shawn and Gus are more likely to be attracted to someone who shares their quirky tastes because it reinforces their own identities and values.

Question 11

In Gilmore Girls, Rory finds herself getting along with other students who share her passion for literature and academic ambition. They bond quickly over their similar goals and values.

Answer 11

Studies on Similarity: Research shows that people are more likely to form relationships with those who share similar beliefs, values, and backgrounds.

Explanation: Rory’s attraction to her classmates is based on shared interests and values, which is a powerful predictor of relationship satisfaction. Similarity increases connection by validating each person’s beliefs and goals, helping to form deeper and more lasting relationships.

Question 12

In Bones, Dr. Brennan and Booth are similarly good-looking, which helps them to maintain mutual respect and attraction.

Answer 12

The Matching Hypothesis: The idea that individuals are more likely to form relationships with others who are similar in physical attractiveness.

Explanation: In Bones, Dr. Brennan and Booth’s professional relationship mirrors the matching hypothesis, as their compatibility and physical attractiveness are comparable. This similarity in appearance helps them connect on both professional and personal levels, maintaining a stable and long-lasting partnership.

Question 13

Phineas and Ferb’s neighbor, Baljeet, often feels more connected to his friends because they share his academic and personal values, especially his commitment to learning and curiosity.

Answer 13

Why Similarity Matters: Similarity promotes attraction because it fosters a sense of validation and mutual understanding, which can lead to stronger connections.

Explanation: Baljeet’s attraction to his friends is partly due to shared academic values and interests. When people share values, it reinforces their beliefs and helps create a deeper connection, making it easier to form and maintain friendships or romantic relationships.

Question 14

In The Mentalist, Patrick Jane and Teresa Lisbon often work together, building trust and attraction due to their shared approach to solving cases and their similar methods of analyzing human behavior.

Answer 14

Social Validation: The reinforcement of one’s beliefs and attitudes through interactions with others who share similar views.

Explanation: Patrick Jane and Teresa Lisbon’s connection grows because their shared approaches to work provide social validation. This mutual validation leads to stronger emotional bonds, which in turn enhances attraction between them.

Question 15

In Community, Jeff and Britta frequently clash, but their frequent interactions lead them to form a deeper attraction, as they begin to recognize their shared personal struggles and values.

Answer 15

Proximity and Attraction: The tendency for individuals to form relationships with people who are geographically or socially close to them.

Explanation: Jeff and Britta’s increasing attraction is partly due to their frequent interactions. Their proximity at school leads to increased opportunities for bonding and familiarity, which enhances their attraction over time.

Question 16

In Burn Notice, Michael and Fiona’s relationship deepens not just because of their similar goals in fighting injustice, but also due to the frequent exposure they have to each other in high-stress situations.

Answer 16

The Mere Exposure Effect: The phenomenon where repeated exposure to someone or something increases liking for it, even if there is no direct interaction.

Explanation: Michael and Fiona’s attraction grows as they spend more time together, especially in high-pressure environments. The mere exposure effect helps explain why people tend to develop feelings for those they see or interact with frequently, even if they initially feel neutral about them.

Question 17

In Gilmore Girls, when Lorelai first meets Luke, their shared sarcastic sense of humor and fast-paced conversation styles make it easier for them to interact, which creates an immediate attraction.

Answer 17

Cognitive Fluency: The idea that people are more attracted to things that are easier for the brain to process, such as familiar patterns or clear communication.

Explanation: Lorelai and Luke’s attraction is partly due to their conversational ease, which stems from their shared communication style. Cognitive fluency suggests that people are drawn to interactions that are smooth and effortless to process, like their fast-paced and witty dialogue.

Question 18

In Bones, the team often compares their past relationships and current dynamics with others, evaluating how they feel in their current work environment versus potential new opportunities.

Answer 18

Comparison Level for Alternatives (CLalt): The concept of evaluating one’s current relationship against potential alternative relationships.

Explanation: In Bones, the team’s decision to remain in their current dynamic is influenced by whether they perceive other relationships as offering more rewards or fewer costs. This evaluation shapes their satisfaction with their current bonds.

Question 19

In Psych, Shawn and Juliet’s attraction grows over time, especially as they consistently help and support one another, even when the return is not immediate or direct.

Answer 19

Communal Relationships: Relationships where support and benefits are exchanged without the expectation of an immediate or direct return.

Explanation: Shawn and Juliet’s relationship is communal, as they provide each other with emotional and practical support without keeping track of specific contributions. This fosters long-term attraction because the exchange is based on mutual care rather than a transactional approach.

Question 20

In Phineas and Ferb, Isabella and Phineas often help each other with their projects, but they never keep score of their contributions, just enjoying each other’s company and growing closer.

Answer 20

Exchange Relationships: Relationships based on explicit and reciprocal exchanges where both parties expect a direct return for their contributions.

Explanation: Phineas and Isabella’s relationship isn’t an exchange relationship because they don’t expect anything specific in return for their help. However, an exchange relationship would be more common in work settings, where mutual benefits are expected, such as coworkers collaborating on a project.

Question 21

In Community, Annie and Jeff have a strong attraction to each other but find themselves frequently testing the boundaries of their relationship by evaluating how much they get out of it compared to past experiences.

Answer 21

Comparison Level for Alternatives (CLalt): The standards individuals use to evaluate whether staying in a relationship is better than pursuing alternatives.

Explanation: Annie and Jeff’s behavior reflects comparison level for alternatives because they’re assessing their current relationship against other possibilities. If they believe an alternative would provide greater satisfaction or benefits, they may consider leaving the relationship.

Question 22

In Bones, Angela and Hodgins enjoy each other’s company and feel attracted to one another because they share many values, such as their love for the arts and appreciation for adventure.

Answer 22

Similarity and Attraction (Continued): Attraction increases when people share similar personality traits, values, and preferences, leading to stronger relational bonds.

Explanation: Angela and Hodgins’ relationship thrives because of their shared values and interests. The matching of these traits fosters greater empathy, understanding, and emotional connection, which increases their attraction.

Question 23

In Burn Notice, Michael and Fiona’s relationship often faces external pressures, but they rely on shared experiences and memories to strengthen their emotional bond.

Answer 23

A: The Role of Context and Timing: Situational factors, such as shared challenges and external pressures, strengthen attraction by creating opportunities for collaboration, building trust, and fostering emotional intimacy through overcoming adversity together.

Explanation: Facing life-threatening missions and external threats forces Michael and Fiona to rely on each other, deepening their connection. These intense, shared experiences amplify their emotional bond and reinforce their attraction, showing how relationships can be shaped by context and timing.

Question 24

In Psych, Shawn’s charm is enhanced by his good looks, but his witty personality and sarcastic humor elevate him in the eyes of others, proving that appearance alone doesn’t define his attractiveness.

Answer 24

Halo Effect: The cognitive bias where one positive characteristic (e.g., physical attractiveness) leads to the assumption of other positive qualities.

Explanation: Shawn’s physical attractiveness might initially capture attention, but his charming personality and sharp wit are what truly make him attractive to others. The halo effect explains how one trait (like attractiveness) can create a broader, positive perception of a person’s overall qualities.

Question 25

In Bones, Brennan often praises the symmetry of skulls when analyzing remains, stating that those with more symmetrical features are often healthier and may have a better genetic makeup.

Answer 25

The Role of Symmetry: Symmetry is often associated with health and genetic fitness, which can make people appear more attractive. Symmetrical features are linked to good health and genetic quality, which is why Brennan focuses on symmetry as an indicator of a well-functioning organism. This aligns with evolutionary theories that suggest symmetry signals genetic fitness, making symmetrical individuals more attractive.

Question 26

In Gilmore Girls, Rory’s friends admire her because of her academic success, and they see her as capable and kind. Despite not knowing her personally, people in her class quickly start to treat her warmly based on this impression.

Answer 26

Halo Effect: The tendency for one positive characteristic to influence the perception of other characteristics. Rory’s classmates assume that because she is academically successful, she must be a kind person too, and they treat her with warmth based on this impression. This is an example of the halo effect, where her academic success influences how people perceive other qualities about her.

Question 27

In Community, Jeff Winger often uses his good looks and charming personality to get what he wants from others. Despite his often self-centered behavior, people find him approachable and agreeable because of his attractiveness.

Answer 27

Physical Attractiveness and Social Outcomes: Attractive people often experience better social outcomes, being perceived as more competent and sociable. Jeff’s attractiveness causes people to view him as more sociable and friendly, which helps him achieve his goals, even though his behavior may not always align with those traits. This demonstrates how physical attractiveness can influence social outcomes and perceptions.

Question 28

In Phineas and Ferb, the characters often encounter various adventures. Despite the varied contexts, some people, like Candace, are attracted to certain characters more due to their symmetrical features and youthful appearance, which seem to suggest health and vitality.

Answer 28

Symmetry and Attractiveness: Symmetry in faces and bodies is often linked to physical attractiveness, signaling good health and genetic fitness. Candace’s attraction to symmetrical and youthful characters in the show highlights how people may be drawn to these features due to evolutionary reasons, as they are seen as signs of good health and reproductive fitness.

Question 29

In Burn Notice, Michael’s physical fitness and appearance are crucial to how others perceive him in situations requiring physical prowess or trust. His strong jawline and athletic build signal strength and confidence, making him more appealing in high-stakes scenarios.

Answer 29

Sexual Dimorphism: Physical traits associated with masculinity, such as a strong jawline and athletic build, are often seen as attractive because they signal strength and reproductive fitness. Explanation: Michael's masculine features, like his defined jawline and physical strength, emphasize traits linked to sexual dimorphism. These traits are evolutionarily associated with protection and resource acquisition, making him appear more capable and appealing in situations that demand trust or physical ability.

Question 30

In The Mentalist, Patrick Jane uses his charisma to influence others, but his attractiveness is a key factor in his success when dealing with suspects or witnesses, especially in high-stress situations.

Answer 30

Cultural Influences on Beauty: Beauty standards differ across cultures, but certain features like facial symmetry are often universally considered attractive. Patrick Jane’s success in using his charm highlights how physical attractiveness can be influential in various cultures. His ability to connect with people may be enhanced by his adherence to certain universally attractive traits, such as symmetry.

Question 31

In Psych, Shawn’s antics often lead to humorous situations, and despite his tendency to act goofy or make mistakes, people often perceive him as competent and intelligent because of his likeable, attractive personality.

Answer 31

Halo Effect: A cognitive bias where one positive trait (such as attractiveness) influences the perception of other traits (such as intelligence). Shawn’s charm and likability lead people to perceive him as more competent and intelligent than he may actually be. This is a clear example of how the halo effect works in shaping people’s perceptions of him.

Question 32

In Gilmore Girls, Lorelai often talks about how much she appreciates Luke’s hardworking nature and his facial features, which are not conventionally attractive but have grown on her over time.

Answer 32

Familiarity and Familiarity Bias: The mere exposure effect explains that familiarity with a person can increase attraction. Lorelai’s growing affection for Luke, even though his features may not align with conventional attractiveness, illustrates the mere exposure effect. Over time, she becomes more attracted to him as she spends more time with him, highlighting how familiarity can increase attraction.

Question 33

In Community, the group often meets new people at the school, and through mutual friends or classmates, they become more interested in each other, even if they wouldn’t have initially considered them as potential friends.

Answer 33

Social Networks and Attraction: Attraction is often facilitated by mutual connections in social networks. The group’s interactions and growing relationships, influenced by mutual friends and acquaintances, demonstrate how social networks play a role in facilitating attraction. The presence of shared connections makes individuals more likely to be attracted to one another.

Question 34

In Bones, the characters are often involved in solving cases that require collaboration with others. The team’s success is partly due to the trust they build over time through consistent work together.

Answer 34

The Role of Context and Timing: Attraction is influenced by the context in which individuals interact and the emotional state they are in. The team’s cohesion and attraction to working together successfully highlight how the context of their work environment, as well as their shared experiences, can foster mutual attraction and trust over time.

Question 35

In Burn Notice, Michael uses his connections with former spies to navigate dangerous situations. His connections often introduce him to new people, making him more likely to form romantic or business relationships.

Answer 35

Social Networks and Attraction: People often meet potential partners through mutual connections, which increases the likelihood of relationships forming. Michael’s reliance on his network of contacts in the spy world highlights how social networks can provide opportunities for forming both personal and professional relationships, making it easier to form connections with others.

Question 36

In Phineas and Ferb, characters often meet new people at summer camp or on vacations, where the setting is relaxed and promotes intimacy, increasing the chances of developing romantic attractions.

Answer 36

The Role of Context and Timing: Attraction can be influenced by the setting and emotional state, such as in environments promoting intimacy. The relaxed and fun context of summer camp or vacation settings makes it easier for characters in Phineas and Ferb to form romantic attractions. These environments foster closeness, which can enhance attraction between individuals.

Question 37

In Psych, Shawn and Gus frequently meet new people, and Shawn is more friendly and charming than usual; this persona allows him to build trust and win over suspects, creating opportunities for further interaction.

Answer 37

Self-Presentation: The process of managing one’s image and behavior to influence how others perceive them. Explanation: Shawn’s charm and quick wit allow him to craft a likable, attractive persona that enhances his interactions with others. This self-presentation is key to forming connections and gaining trust, as he controls how others see him, similar to how people use various social cues to create positive impressions in real-life situations.

Question 38

In Community, Annie finds herself attracted to Jeff despite his flaws, mainly because of the way he presents himself in the group.

Answer 38

Self-Presentation and Charisma: The way individuals present themselves can significantly influence attraction, regardless of flaws. Explanation: Annie's attraction to Jeff is influenced by how he presents himself in the group—his confidence, charm, and ability to command attention, even though he has personal flaws. This demonstrates that self-presentation plays a large role in attraction, as people are often drawn to how others project themselves, even when other traits might be less than perfect.

Question 39

Shawn and Gus are constantly bickering, with Shawn sarcastically mocking Gus, and Gus becoming defensive. Despite trying to work on a case, their communication is clearly causing frustration.

Answer 39

Contempt: A negative communication behavior where one partner expresses disdain or disrespect, often through sarcasm or mockery. Shawn is displaying contempt toward Gus through sarcastic remarks, which makes Gus defensive and escalates the situation, disrupting their ability to work together effectively.

Question 40

A couple has been fighting for hours, and one partner, overwhelmed, stops talking altogether and physically removes themselves from the situation, avoiding further conflict.

Answer 40

Stonewalling: Withdrawing from the conversation or avoiding conflict to prevent emotional engagement. By physically leaving the conversation, this person is stonewalling, refusing to engage in a meaningful discussion or resolution of the conflict.

Question 40

In the middle of a case, Shawn starts blaming Gus for a mistake. Gus responds by defending himself and attacking Shawn’s methods, which causes an argument to erupt.

Answer 40

Defensiveness: A response in which an individual avoids responsibility by offering excuses or counter-attacking. Gus is being defensive by blaming Shawn's methods instead of accepting responsibility for the mistake, which leads to the argument escalating.

Question 40

After a big fight, Jeff and Annie take a walk around the campus. Jeff apologizes and tells Annie how much he values her. Annie, in turn, thanks him for understanding and agrees to let the issue go.

Answer 40

Healthy Romantic Relationships: Couples who communicate openly and express appreciation for each other tend to have stronger emotional bonds. Jeff and Annie's ability to resolve conflict by openly communicating and appreciating each other strengthens their relationship.

Question 40

Rory and Logan have been arguing about the future of their relationship. Logan calls Rory's ideas childish and dismissive, further distancing themselves emotionally.

Answer 40

Criticism: Expressing disapproval in a harsh or personal manner. Logan is criticizing Rory by attacking her ideas and labeling them as childish, which can lead to hurt feelings and further relationship dissatisfaction.

Question 40

In a situation where Lassiter and Juliet are discussing a difficult situation at work, Juliet is more emotionally open, while Lassiter pulls back and remains aloof, seemingly not invested in the conversation.

Answer 40

Avoidance Dimension of Attachment: A tendency to minimize intimacy and avoid depending on others, leading to more distant or aloof behavior in relationships. Lassiter, who avoids emotional engagement, is demonstrating the avoidance dimension of attachment by not investing in the emotional conversation.

Question 40

In the show Bones, Dr. Brennan, who is more logical and straightforward, often partners with Booth, whose emotional intelligence helps him connect with others. Their contrasting qualities create a dynamic working relationship.

Answer 40

Complementarity: A theory suggesting that people seek out others whose qualities complement their own. Brennan and Booth’s differing emotional and logical styles complement each other, allowing them to work together effectively.

Question 41

The team in Phineas and Ferb constantly involves their sister Candace in their wild schemes, believing she’s going to ruin them. As they anticipate her reaction, they end up setting themselves up for failure.

Answer 41

Self-Fulfilling Prophecy: A belief or expectation that leads to behaviors that cause the belief to come true. The brothers' anticipation of Candace ruining their plans leads to them making decisions that directly result in the situation they feared.

Question 41

Shawn notices a detective from a detective agency more often when they walk through the precinct. Over time, he starts feeling positive toward them, despite not having spoken directly.

Answer 41

Mere Exposure Effect: The phenomenon where repeated exposure to someone or something increases the likelihood of liking it, even without direct interaction. Shawn starts liking the detective simply because of the frequency with which he sees them, despite no personal interaction.

Question 41

Michael and Fiona weighs the rewards of staying together against the potential costs of breaking up, considering factors like mutual love, finances, and family ties.

Answer 41

Social Exchange Theory: The theory that relationships succeed when the rewards outweigh the costs, and individuals evaluate relationships based on a cost-benefit analysis. Michael and Fiona use a social exchange approach to weigh their options, considering both rewards (e.g., love, family) and costs (e.g., finances, conflict).

Question 41

In Community, Jeff Winger often believes that his quick wit and charm make him superior to others. However, his sarcasm and tendency to belittle others cause his relationships with classmates to become strained.

Answer 41

Halo Effect: The tendency to assume that attractive individuals possess other positive qualities beyond their physical appearance, such as intelligence or kindness. Jeff’s charm leads others to perceive him as more capable or intelligent than he may actually be, even though his behavior often undermines his relationships.

Question 41

Shawn's ability to read people and detect small behavioral cues helps him quickly understand who is guilty in a case, even when they try to hide it.

Answer 41

Emotional Intelligence (EQ): The ability to recognize, express, and manage emotions effectively within social interactions. Shawn's skill in detecting and responding to emotional cues from others showcases his high emotional intelligence, which is essential in solving cases.

Question 41

Hodgins and Angela, who have been together for many years, always discusse their daily successes and support each other during tough times, strengthening their emotional connection.

Answer 41

Healthy Romantic Relationships: Couples who share successes and provide emotional support build stronger emotional connections. By celebrating each other’s achievements and providing support during challenges, Hodgins and Angela reinforces their bond.

Question 41

In Gilmore Girls, Lorelai and Rory's close relationship allows them to anticipate each other's needs, often without saying a word. Their bond is strengthened by their mutual support and care.

Answer 41

Communal Relationship: A relationship where individuals feel special responsibility for each other and give according to long-term care. Lorelai and Rory’s relationship is a prime example of a communal relationship, where their care for each other strengthens their emotional connection.

Question 42

While discussing their relationship, Dean starts feeling insecure and clings to Rory, worried that he might be abandoned.

Answer 42

Anxiety Dimension of Attachment: The degree to which individuals worry about rejection and intimacy, often leading to insecurity in relationships. Dean’s clinginess is a result of high anxiety about rejection, stemming from their fear of being abandoned.

Question 43

When two people are introduced, their conversation seems forced, and they’re constantly trying to figure out if they have things in common. They avoid each other if they realize there’s a significant difference in their values.

Answer 43

Repulsion Hypothesis: The idea that we test for dissimilarities first, rejecting others before seeking out similarities. The initial focus on differences in values exemplifies the repulsion hypothesis, where individuals try to rule out dissimilarities before considering any potential commonalities.

Question 44

In Burn Notice, Michael Westen uses his skills to assess a situation and determine whether it’s worth investing time and resources, weighing the possible rewards against the risks.

Answer 44

Comparison Level for Alternatives: The individual’s perception of what they could get from alternative relationships or situations, compared to their current one. Michael’s decision-making process mirrors the concept of comparison level for alternatives, as he evaluates whether the potential reward is worth the effort, compared to other options.

Question 45

In The Mentalist, Patrick Jane uses his charm and understanding of human nature to make others feel at ease and open up during investigations.

Answer 45

Functional Distance: The way the layout of a space or the frequency of interactions affects how often people come into contact with each other. Patrick’s ability to foster openness may be influenced by functional distance—his ability to create frequent interactions that lead to trust and openness.

Question 46

On Bones, the team’s ability to decipher remains and solve cases is influenced by their experience with the behaviors of suspects, which makes them react emotionally in ways that guide their moral judgments.

Answer 46

Social Intuitionist Model of Moral Judgment: The idea that people first experience emotional reactions to events, then use reasoning to make moral judgments. The team’s initial emotional reactions to suspects drive their judgments, which they later reason through using logic and evidence.

Question 47

In Gilmore Girls, Rory is presented with an opportunity to go on a date with a charming boy. Although she is excited at first, she quickly worries that the relationship might not live up to her expectations, affecting her mood.

Answer 47

Affective Forecasting: The act of predicting how future events will make us feel emotionally and for how long. Rory’s uncertainty about her future emotional reaction to the date demonstrates affective forecasting, as she anticipates how she might feel about it.

Question 48

In "Community," Abed and Troy start to spend more time together because of their shared interest in pop culture. Over time, their bond grows stronger as they continue to find common ground.

Answer 48

Similarity: The tendency to be attracted to others who share similar characteristics or preferences. Abed and Troy's friendship is based on similarity. They connect over shared interests, like pop culture, which creates a foundation for a stronger relationship. This reinforces the idea that people tend to like others who share similar characteristics, such as age, education, or personality.

Question 49

In "Bones," Brennan often feels frustrated when people make judgments about her based on her appearance or social interactions, leading her to shut herself off emotionally from others. Her colleagues, however, continue to reach out despite her initial resistance.

Answer 49

Avoidance Dimension of Attachment: The tendency to minimize intimacy and avoid depending on others, leading to distant or aloof behavior. Brennan exhibits an avoidant attachment style. She struggles with intimacy and avoids emotional closeness, even though her colleagues continue to show interest and empathy. This dynamic illustrates how individuals with avoidant attachment may distance themselves from others despite positive relational efforts from others.

Question 50

In "Phineas and Ferb," Phineas and Ferb repeatedly try to outdo each other with creative inventions, even when they do not necessarily benefit from the competition.

Answer 50

Exchange Relationship: A relationship based on transactions where individuals feel little responsibility for each other, and their behavior is governed by reciprocity and equity. Phineas and Ferb’s relationship reflects an exchange dynamic. They constantly outdo each other with new inventions, which suggests a more transactional relationship where the focus is on mutual benefit rather than deep emotional connection or care for long-term outcomes.

Question 51

In "Gilmore Girls," Rory and Lorelai celebrate each other’s accomplishments, whether it's Rory's academic success or Lorelai's achievements in the inn business. They consistently show support and appreciation for each other.

Answer 51

Healthy Romantic Relationships: Relationships where individuals capitalize on positive moments, celebrate each other’s successes, and provide emotional support during difficult times. Rory and Lorelai exemplify a healthy relationship, where they both celebrate each other’s successes and provide constant emotional support. This dynamic fosters a strong emotional bond and a sense of mutual appreciation, key aspects of healthy relationships.

Question 52

In "Psych," Shawn often uses humor or sarcasm in situations that might otherwise be tense. His use of humor allows him to avoid serious conflict and makes others less likely to take offense.

Answer 52

Stonewalling: Withdrawing from the conversation or avoiding conflict, often leading to communication breakdowns. Shawn uses humor and sarcasm as a form of stonewalling, avoiding direct confrontation and emotional engagement. While it provides temporary relief, it could potentially hinder the development of deeper communication in his relationships.

Question 53

In "Burn Notice," Michael often gives elaborate excuses when he is caught in a lie or misstep. He deflects responsibility and tries to justify his actions, even when it’s clear he has made a mistake.

Answer 53

Defensiveness: The act of avoiding responsibility and responding with excuses or counter-attacks. Michael frequently exhibits defensiveness. When confronted about his actions, he avoids taking responsibility and instead justifies his behavior, a clear example of how defensiveness can prevent productive communication and problem-solving.

Question 54

In "The Mentalist," Patrick Jane often uses his observational skills to detect emotions and subtle cues, such as body language or tone of voice, to solve cases.

Answer 54

Non-Verbal Behavior: Communication through physical cues such as body language, eye contact, and touch, which convey emotions and intentions. Patrick Jane’s ability to read non-verbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice, demonstrates the importance of non-verbal behavior in communication. These cues provide valuable emotional insights that help him solve cases.

Question 55

In "Gilmore Girls," Rory gets anxious about her upcoming college interview, believing that she might not be good enough. As a result, she becomes overly nervous, making the situation harder for herself, and clinging to Lorelai for support.

Answer 55

Anxiety Dimension of Attachment: The tendency to worry about rejection and intimacy, often leading to insecurity and clinginess. Rory's anxiety about her interview reflects the anxiety dimension of attachment. She worries excessively about the potential for rejection, which makes her nervous and affects her performance, showcasing how attachment-related anxiety can influence behavior.

Question 56

In "Psych," Shawn and Gus are constantly with each other, spending all their free time together, leading to frequent and natural interactions that help strengthen their friendship.

Answer 56

Functional Distance: The physical or architectural layout of a space that influences how often individuals interact. Shawn and Gus’ friendship is strengthened by the functional distance between them. They work together closely and spend a lot of time interacting, which helps to foster a stronger emotional bond.

Question 57

In "Burn Notice," Michael is often faced with difficult choices where his long-term investment in his mission or relationships is tested by the presence of more immediate alternatives.

Answer 57

Comparison Level for Alternatives: The perception of what could be gained from alternative relationships or situations, compared to the current one. Michael often faces tough decisions, weighing the value of his current relationship or mission against other available alternatives. This decision-making process reflects his comparison level for alternatives, influencing his commitment to the situation.

Question 58

In "The Mentalist," Patrick Jane shows a high degree of emotional intelligence when he reads people's reactions and emotions in real-time to solve crimes, helping him connect with others and gain their trust.

Answer 58

Emotional Intelligence (EQ): The ability to express, recognize, and use emotions well in social interactions. Patrick Jane’s ability to read and respond to emotional cues, understanding others’ feelings and emotions, showcases his high emotional intelligence. His EQ allows him to build rapport with others and solve cases more effectively.

Question 59

In "Bones," Brennan believes in the power of science and facts, often relying on data rather than her emotions when making decisions. This leads her to appear emotionally distant to those around her.

Answer 59

Avoidance Dimension of Attachment: The tendency to minimize intimacy and avoid depending on others, leading to more distant or aloof behavior. Brennan's reliance on facts over emotions exemplifies avoidant attachment. She tends to keep her emotions in check and distances herself from intimate connections, reflecting the avoidance dimension in her behavior.

Question 60

In "Phineas and Ferb," the duo invents and builds new things every day, which keeps them excited and motivated. Their high-energy approach to life helps them stay positive and focused on their goals.

Answer 60

Focal Emotions: Emotions that are especially prevalent within a specific culture or environment. Phineas and Ferb’s enthusiasm and excitement reflect focal emotions. Their constant energy and positivity reflect the values and mood of their environment, contributing to the fun and high-energy tone of their adventures.

Question 61

In "Community," Britta is quick to judge others and often acts as though she is better than them, leading to some strained interactions with her friends.

Answer 61

Criticism: Expressing disapproval in a harsh or personal manner. Britta’s tendency to criticize others harshly leads to tension in her relationships. Her disapproval of her friends, delivered in a personal and sharp manner, creates an emotional distance, exemplifying criticism’s role in relationship breakdowns.

Question 62

In Gilmore Girls, Rory often projects her high academic standards onto her boyfriend, Logan. She assumes he will perform similarly, even if he doesn’t. What concept from social psychology explains this projection?

Answer 62

Projection Path: The tendency to project the image of your ideal partner onto your current partner, making them seem closer to your idealized version. Rory’s ideal image of a perfect partner (someone who excels academically) affects how she sees Logan, even if Logan doesn't share the same academic focus. This projection affects her satisfaction in the relationship.

Question 63

In Community, Abed has an idealized version of his friends, often seeing them in a more positive light than they may see themselves. Which concept explains why Abed might feel happier in his relationships when he holds these positive views?

Answer 63

Projected Illusions Hypothesis: The idea that the more closely we see our partner as our ideal partner, the happier we are in the relationship. Abed’s positive view of his friends allows him to maintain stronger, more fulfilling relationships, as he believes they live up to his idealized version of them.

Question 64

In Bones, Booth and Brennan often help each other improve, whether it's in their personal or professional lives. This mutual support can strengthen their relationship. What concept explains this?

Answer 64

The Michelangelo Effect: A phenomenon where partners help each other become their ideal selves by supporting each other’s goals and behaviors. Booth encourages Brennan’s creative endeavors, and Brennan supports Booth’s emotional growth. This mutual support enhances their relationship by helping them become better versions of themselves.

Question 65

In The Mentalist, Patrick Jane often uses his sharp observation skills to understand people's insecurities. How might his behavior reflect a psychological model about how we view our attachment figures?

Answer 65

Activation of the Attachment System: The process in which a threat activates our need for attachment, prompting us to seek comfort or reassurance from a close figure. This model suggests that our attachment style influences how we relate to others. Jane’s behavior might reflect a secure attachment tendency, allowing him to empathize and connect with others by understanding their vulnerabilities. Alternatively, his loss of his wife might also evoke behaviors linked to anxious attachment, as he struggles with unresolved grief and emotional closeness.

Question 66

In New Girl, Jess often seeks out her roommates when she’s feeling anxious or down. What attachment concept explains her behavior?

Answer 66

Secure Attachment: When an individual feels comfortable depending on others and doesn’t worry about the closeness of relationships. Jess relies on her roommates, which shows she has a secure attachment, as she feels confident that they will be there for her when she needs support.

Question 67

In Burn Notice, Michael Weston maintains distance from his past relationships to avoid emotional pain. What attachment style does this reflect?

Answer 67

Avoidant Attachment Style: Characterized by emotional distance and reluctance to depend on others, often stemming from a history of rejection or unavailability from caregivers. Michael’s tendency to keep people at arm’s length demonstrates an avoidant attachment style, where he distances himself from others to protect against potential hurt.

Question 68

In Phineas and Ferb, Candace is often preoccupied with proving that her brothers' inventions are real, but she frequently feels ignored by her mother. What attachment style might Candace have?

Answer 68

Anxious-Ambivalent Attachment Style: Individuals with this attachment style are often preoccupied with the availability of their attachment figure and may experience jealousy, low self-esteem, or emotional distress when the figure is unavailable. Candace's emotional distress and need to prove herself reflect the anxious-ambivalent style, where she craves her mother's attention and validation but doesn't always get it.

Question 69

In Gilmore Girls, Lorelai has a close and supportive relationship with her daughter Rory, despite having a strained relationship with her own mother. What concept might explain the difference between Lorelai’s relationship with Rory and her relationship with Emily?

Answer 69

The Strange Situation (Ainsworth, 1978): A test of how children respond to separations and reunions with caregivers. Secure attachment forms when a caregiver is sensitive and responsive to the child’s needs. Lorelai has a secure attachment to Rory because she is sensitive to her needs, unlike her relationship with Emily, where there was more inconsistency and lack of support, leading to an anxious attachment.

Question 70

In Bones, Booth’s reliance on his faith during times of distress may reflect a core psychological concept regarding how attachment figures function. What is this concept?

Answer 70

Safe Haven: A secure base or figure that provides comfort and reassurance during stressful times. Booth relies on his faith (a psychological "safe haven") for reassurance when facing personal challenges, helping him feel secure despite difficult situations.

Question 71

In Community, Jeff often manipulates situations to get the outcome he wants, showing little emotional vulnerability. What attachment style does Jeff likely exhibit?

Answer 71

Avoidant Attachment Style: Individuals with this style tend to distance themselves emotionally and avoid intimacy to protect themselves from rejection or vulnerability. Jeff’s reluctance to form close bonds, as well as his need for control, reflect this style.

Question 72

In Psych, Shawn and Gus often show exaggerated confidence in their abilities, even when they don’t know what they’re doing. What effect is this behavior an example of?

Answer 72

Better-Than-Average (BTA) Effect: The tendency for individuals to rate themselves as better than average in various attributes. Shawn and Gus exhibit the BTA effect by believing they are exceptional detectives, even though their actual skills may not always align with their self-perception.

Question 73

In Phineas and Ferb, Isabella is often portrayed as having an idealized image of Phineas. How does her perception of him relate to relationship satisfaction?

Answer 73

Projected Illusions Hypothesis: The more someone sees their partner as their ideal version, the happier they are in the relationship. Isabella’s idealized view of Phineas may contribute to her feelings of happiness, as seeing him as a perfect partner makes their interactions more fulfilling.

Question 74

In Burn Notice, Michael desperately yearns to form closer relationships, but struggles to trust his friends due to his past experiences. What attachment-related concept might explain his wariness?

Answer 74

Fearful Attachment Style: An attachment style characterized by anxiety about relationships and a fear of rejection, often linked to past negative experiences. Michael's reluctance to fully trust others due to past betrayals is indicative of a fearful attachment style, where past trauma causes hesitation to form deep emotional bonds.

Question 75

In New Girl, Schmidt constantly seeks validation from his friends, often over-sharing personal details. Which attachment style does Schmidt most likely demonstrate?

Answer 75

Anxious-Ambivalent Attachment Style: Individuals with this style are often preoccupied with relationships, seeking constant reassurance while fearing rejection or instability. Schmidt’s need for validation and emotional over-sharing reflect this attachment style.

Question 76

What might explain why some people feel secure in most of their relationships, despite varying attachment styles?

Answer 76

Attachment Style and Relationship Security: People’s attachment styles—whether secure, anxious, or avoidant—can influence their behaviors and expectations in relationships. People may feel secure in most relationships despite varying attachment styles due to factors like high self-esteem, positive past experiences, supportive partners, strong social networks, and personal growth. These factors can help offset attachment-related insecurities, fostering overall relationship security. Example: In Gilmore Girls, Lorelai Gilmore may have an anxious attachment style due to her strained relationship with her parents, but she forms deep, secure connections with her daughter Rory and close friends like Sookie, showing that attachment styles don’t always dictate the security one feels in relationships.

Question 77

How do subjective measures of happiness, such as Subjective Well-Being (SWB), vary across individuals, and why?

Answer 77

Subjective Well-Being (SWB): SWB is influenced by life satisfaction, positive affect, and negative affect, but it’s ultimately subjective—meaning it’s based on individual self-reports. SWB can vary based on factors like social desirability, recent life events, and even health status. Example: In The Mentalist, Patrick Jane’s sense of life satisfaction is fluctuating throughout the series based on his past trauma (negative affect) and his work solving cases (positive affect), highlighting how personal experiences and perceptions shape one’s SWB.

Question 78

What is the relationship between money and happiness, and how does this differ between the rich and poor?

Answer 78

Money and Happiness: For people in poverty, accumulating money tends to increase happiness by improving security. However, for wealthier individuals, focusing on wealth alone might not lead to increased happiness. In fact, the pursuit of money can sometimes diminish happiness, especially if it’s not linked to prosocial spending. Example: In Burn Notice, Michael Westen’s financial struggles often lead to dissatisfaction and a constant drive for money, but his moments of happiness come when he helps others, showing that prosocial spending or actions can bring more happiness than accumulating wealth alone.

Question 79

Why do people often feel happier when they spend money on others rather than themselves?

Answer 79

Prosocial Spending and Happiness: Spending money on others, such as buying gifts or supporting a cause, increases happiness because it boosts feelings of connection and altruism, which are linked to improved subjective well-being. Example: In New Girl, Schmidt often buys Nick presents, like fancy cookies, not because he wants material rewards but because giving Nick presents boosts Schmidt's own happiness. This reflects the finding that helping others (prosocial spending) tends to enhance happiness more than spending on oneself.

Question 80

What does the 'hedonic treadmill' theory suggest about people’s happiness over time?

Answer 80

Hedonic Treadmill: This theory suggests that people quickly adapt to changes in their lives, so even positive life events (like winning the lottery) or negative ones (like a loss) tend to only temporarily impact happiness. Over time, people return to their baseline level of happiness, much like running on a treadmill without getting anywhere. Example: In Phineas and Ferb, Phineas and Ferb's constant inventing and adventures make them happy, but once they’ve completed one big project, they’re already planning the next. This reflects the hedonic treadmill—they’re always chasing the next fun idea, never quite staying satisfied with past accomplishments.

Question 81

What is the 'Set Point Theory' in relation to Subjective Well-Being (SWB)?

Answer 81

Set Point Theory: Set point theory suggests that a person’s SWB is largely determined by genetics and early life experiences, which creates a baseline level of happiness. Over time, people’s happiness levels may fluctuate, but they generally return to this baseline level. Example: In Bones, Dr. Brennan's baseline SWB seems steady despite the challenges in her career and personal life. While she has positive and negative experiences, her overall happiness remains fairly constant, supporting the idea of a set point.

Question 82

How does 'miswanting' explain people’s dissatisfaction with achieving their goals?

Answer 82

Miswanting: Miswanting occurs when people desire something that they think will bring them happiness, only to find that it doesn’t fulfill them as expected. This could be due to misinterpreting feelings or using incorrect assumptions to predict how something will affect them. Example: In Community, Jeff Winger initially seeks prestige and recognition, believing that these external markers of success will make him happy. However, he discovers that true happiness comes from personal relationships and his growth, not the superficial success he once sought.

Question 83

What is the difference between 'focalism' and 'durability bias' in the context of how people predict their future happiness?

Answer 83

Focalism and Durability Bias: Focalism occurs when people overly emphasize one aspect of an event (like moving to a new city) while underestimating other factors. Durability bias happens when people overestimate how long emotions will last after an event, whether positive or negative. Example: In Gilmore Girls, Rory might expect that moving to Yale will bring her eternal happiness (focalism), but she underestimates how difficult the adjustment will be (durability bias), especially with the added pressures of balancing school, friendships, and family.

Question 84

What role does ‘immune neglect’ play in how we respond to negative events in our lives?

Answer 84

Immune Neglect is the idea that people don’t realize how good they are at bouncing back from tough situations. When something bad happens, like failing an exam or going through a breakup, people tend to think they’ll feel terrible for a long time. But in reality, our minds have ways of helping us recover, like finding positives in the situation or adapting over time. Immune neglect happens when we forget about this ability to cope and instead focus on how bad the situation seems in the moment. Example: In Psych, Shawn Spencer often faces dire situations but is able to remain emotionally resilient by making jokes and using his wit. His ability to mentally adjust to the pressures he faces showcases immune neglect—he overestimates how devastating a situation is, only to find that he can handle it better than expected.

Question 85

How does the concept of 'fate' influence SWB and why is it considered a set point?

Answer 85

Fate and SWB: Some people’s SWB seems largely predetermined by their life circumstances or fate, leading to a “set point” from which their happiness fluctuates. This set point is influenced by both genetic factors and early life experiences, and it can make people more or less resilient to positive or negative events. Example: In The Mentalist, Patrick Jane has a tragic past that shaped his baseline SWB. While he experiences emotional highs and lows, his general level of happiness seems to return to a baseline established by his early traumatic experiences.