Chapter 12: Problem 3

What does it mean when psychologists say that certain facial expressions are innate?

Short Answer

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When psychologists say certain facial expressions are innate, it means these expressions are universal and ingrained in us from birth, serving as non-verbal cues to communicate emotional states.

Step by step solution

Understanding the terms in the problem

Generally, the term 'innate' is used to refer to behaviors or characteristics that are present from birth rather than ones that a person learns through experience. Thus, when psychologists say that certain facial expressions are 'innate', they suggest that these expressions are behaviors that are naturally ingrained in us from birth.

Significance of innate facial expressions

In psychology, the idea of facial expressions being innate implies that they are universal across cultures and societies, meaning they would be the same in every person regardless of their upbringing or cultural background. This concept is integral to understanding human emotion and communication.

Explanation of innate facial expressions in detail

Innate facial expressions often serve as non-verbal cues that communicate our emotional states. For example, expressions of joy, sadness, fear, surprise, disgust, and anger are often classified as innate because they appear to be universally recognized and expressed in the same way by people all over the world, regardless of cultural or societal differences.

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What does it mean when psychologists say that certain facial expressions are innate?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Understanding the terms in the problem

Significance of innate facial expressions

Explanation of innate facial expressions in detail

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