Which of the following are findings of studies on the universality of facial expressions for the emotions of happiness, surprise, fear, anger, disgust, and sadness?

A. Facial expressions for these emotions are universally recognized across cultures.
B. There are cultural differences in the interpretation of facial expressions for these emotions.
C. Facial expressions for these emotions vary significantly depending on individual personality traits.
D. Facial expressions for these emotions are only universally recognized in Western cultures.

a) Facial expressions for core emotions like happiness, surprise, fear, anger, disgust, and sadness are generally universally recognized, but also subject to cultural differences in interpretation and display rules.

Explanation:

The findings of studies on the universality of facial expressions for happiness, surprise, fear, anger, disgust, and sadness indicate that while facial expressions associated with these emotions are universally recognized across different cultures, there are also cultural differences in the interpretation of these expressions. Studies conducted by researchers such as Paul Ekman have revealed that although the basic emotional expressions are identified above chance levels globally, indicating a universal aspect to facial expressions, there is variability in recognition rates between cultures. For instance, US participants are more likely to associate a smile with happiness compared to Sumatran participants. Additionally, the concept of 'display rules' – societal norms dictating the appropriate expression of emotions – plays a significant role in these cultural differences. This is evidenced by specific facial expressions signaling different emotions in different cultures, like biting one's tongue to signal embarrassment in India.