Which factor relates to neuroticism and illogical thinking when arousal is high?

• A. Under-aroused II
• B. Arousal
• C. Over-aroused II
• D. Optimum arousal III

Answer: (C)

High arousal can disrupt thinking, especially for someone who is high in neuroticism, which means they are more emotionally reactive and prone to anxiety. When arousal is pushed beyond the optimal level, cognitive processing shifts from careful, logical reasoning to quick, automatic responses. This makes illogical thinking more likely as worries and stress hijack working memory and attention. The scenario described fits the state of being over-aroused—the level where arousal is too high and performance and thinking quality tend to decline. In contrast, too little arousal reduces alertness, and the optimum arousal is the balance where performance is best, not where illogical thinking occurs.