What does display rule theory state about emotion expression across cultures?

• A. Societal norms dictate when, where, and how emotions are expressed; display rules vary across cultures.
• B. Emotions are universal and expressed identically in all cultures.
• C. Display rules determine only facial expressions but not verbal expression.
• D. Emotions are learned only through genetics.

Answer: (A)

Display rule theory says that expressing emotions is shaped by culturally learned social norms. Societal rules guide when it’s appropriate to show feelings, where you can show them, and how strongly you should display them, and these norms differ across cultures. Because of this, the same underlying emotion can be expressed differently in different cultural contexts, with variations in facial expressions, vocal tone, and body language depending on the setting and audience. This idea emphasizes cultural learning and social regulation of expression rather than seeing emotions as expressed identically everywhere. The other views miss key points: some cultures don’t show universal, identical expressions; display rules govern more than just facial expressions; and emotions aren’t determined solely by genetics but are shaped by social learning and cultural norms.