Some People Are Generally Happy and Optimistic; Other People Are

question 128

Multiple Choice

Some people are generally happy and optimistic; other people are generally sad and pessimistic. One possible explanation for these general dispositions on life might be that optimistic people ____________ and pessimistic people ____________.

• A) show cerebral symmetry; show cerebral asymmetry
• B) show cerebral asymmetry; show cerebral symmetry
• C) are left hemisphere dominant; are right hemisphere dominant
• D) are right hemisphere dominant; are left hemisphere dominant

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Definitions:

Mood Disorders

A category of mental disorders involving persistent disturbances in mood or emotional state, such as depression or bipolar disorder.

Cortisol

A hormone secreted by the adrenal cortex that elevates blood sugar and protects the body’s tissues in case of injury; if chronically elevated due to stress, it can lead to hypertension, immune disorders, other illnesses, and possibly depression.

Hippocampus

A major component of the brain, involved in learning and memory.

Biological Model

An approach to psychology focusing on understanding human behavior in terms of biological responses and processes.