PSAT Reading Question 192: Answer and Explanation

Question: 192

Which statement best explains the relationship between endorphin production and mental outlook?

• A. Increasing a person's amount of endorphins encourages a positive state of mind.
• B. The act of laughing produces endorphins, which can offer a person protection against heart disease.
• C. Research indicates that chemical reactions in the brain produce endorphins.
• D. If a person has more endorphins, he or she has a difficult time tolerating pain.

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

A

Difficulty: Medium

Category: Inference

Getting to the Answer: Think about the connection the passage makes between laughter and the ability to accomplish challenging tasks. Choice (A) is correct. The passage notes that endorphin production is associated with "mental energy and positivity" (lines 27– 28).