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Two-Factor Theory

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examWritten by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

The Two-Factor Theory, proposed by Schachter and Singer, states that our experience of emotion is determined by both physiological arousal and cognitive interpretation. In other words, emotions are the result of a combination of physical sensations and our thoughts about those sensations.

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