What is a weakness of the theory that interpretive body symptoms, such as increased heart rate, lead to panic?

The choice that states panic does not increase levels of the stress hormone cortisol highlights a weakness of the theory that interpretive body symptoms lead to panic. This theory posits that individuals interpret physical symptoms—like an increased heart rate—as threatening, which consequently leads to a panic attack. However, if panic attacks do not result in the physiological changes associated with stress responses, such as an increase in cortisol levels, it raises questions about the validity of the interpretation of these symptoms as inherently panic-inducing.

Understanding the physiological aspects of panic attacks is crucial. If panic occurs without the expected biological responses, it may suggest that the relationship is not as straightforward as the theory proposes. This discrepancy can imply that the theory may not adequately account for the complexity of panic experiences among individuals, supporting the idea that panic disorder could have more nuanced origins beyond simple symptom interpretation.

Thus, this answer reflects a limitation of the theory by suggesting that it may not be universally applicable or entirely accurate in describing the physiological responses associated with panic disorder.