The Importance of Drawing a Distinction Between State and Trait

question 15

Multiple Choice

The importance of drawing a distinction between state and trait affect as illustrated by the Cohen and colleagues study (1995) is the apparent

• A)misinterpretation of symptoms by the state-negative group
• B)cognitive bias of the state- negative group
• C)cognitive bias of the trait-negative group
• D)predisposition to developing URI symptoms in the state-negative
• E)predisposition to developing URI symptoms in the trait-negative group

---

Definitions:

Robert Merton

An American sociologist noted for developing the theory of structural functionalism and concepts like self-fulfilling prophecy and role model.

Social Institution

An organized system of social behavior with a particular and recognized purpose, like family, education, religion, or the economy.

Structural Functionalism

A sociological approach that sees society as a complex system whose parts work together to promote solidarity and stability.

Stability

The state of being steady, consistent, and relatively unchanged, often regarded as a desirable condition in various contexts such as social, economic, and ecological systems.