According to a study, which one of the following fears do some animals share with humans?
a. fear of failure b. fear of rejection c. fear of the unknown d. fear of being stared at
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is d. fear of being stared at.
Several studies have shown that some animals, like primates, show a fear response when they are stared at by other animals or even humans. This behavior is often linked to feelings of threat or dominance. For example, in many species of primates, direct eye contact can be interpreted as a sign of aggression or a challenge to their authority. Animals might perceive staring as a threat, prompting them to react defensively. This reaction is rooted in survival instincts, where the animal may need to either defend itself or assert its own dominance.
In humans, the fear of being stared at can also manifest, especially in social situations. This fear, often referred to as scopophobia, can trigger anxiety or discomfort when a person feels that they are being closely observed or judged by others. This shared fear between some animals and humans could be traced back to evolutionary survival mechanisms. The idea is that being the focus of another’s gaze, particularly if the other individual is perceived as a predator or competitor, might indicate danger.
Animals like dogs and cats also exhibit similar behaviors. A dog may feel threatened by a direct stare, leading it to either retreat or growl as a sign of caution. In the wild, such stares can be perceived as a challenge or an indication of an impending attack, thus explaining the shared instinct to fear being stared at.
Therefore, the fear of being stared at is a common behavioral response seen in both animals and humans, serving as a protective reaction against potential threats.