To formulate a general definition of emotion, it will be most accurate to say that

A. an emotion is a specific reaction to a perceived change in a situation.
B. emotions are feelings that have both physiological and cognitive elements.
C. emotions are adaptive physiological responses to feelings.
D. emotion is a feeling state evoked by an expressed behavior.
B

I agree.

To determine the most accurate general definition of emotion, we can examine each option and consider the information provided.

Option A states that an emotion is a specific reaction to a perceived change in a situation. This definition focuses on the idea that emotions are triggered by changes in our environment. While this is often true, it does not capture the full complexity of emotions, as they can also be influenced by internal factors such as thoughts and beliefs.

Option B states that emotions are feelings that have both physiological and cognitive elements. This definition acknowledges that emotions involve not only subjective experiences but also physiological changes in our body and cognitive processes such as thoughts and beliefs. It recognizes the multidimensional nature of emotions and is supported by research in the field of psychology.

Option C states that emotions are adaptive physiological responses to feelings. This definition suggests that emotions are primarily physiological responses that help us adapt to our feelings. While physiological responses are certainly a component of emotions, this definition overlooks the cognitive and subjective aspects of emotions, which are important in understanding them fully.

Option D states that emotion is a feeling state evoked by an expressed behavior. This definition suggests that emotions are triggered by behaviors rather than being the subjective experiences themselves. While behaviors can certainly be influenced by emotions, this definition does not capture the internal experiences and cognitive processes that accompany emotions.

Based on these considerations, option B is the most accurate general definition of emotion. Emotions are complex experiences that involve both feelings and cognitive elements, as well as physiological changes in our body.