Esmeralda is very anxious about taking her final exam in organic chemistry. Instead of doing last-minute studying in her dorm, Esmeralda goes to the exam room. Several students are already there, discussing their nervousness about the final. Social comparison theory would predict that Esmeralda will in the presence of other anxious people.

Feel validated

Explanation:

Validation means accepting and understanding a person or people thoughts about something. This usually brings a sense of belonging to the person and some level of comfort in tough situations.

In this case, Esmeralda met with people who also felt nervous about the exam and this made her ease in and feel endorsed by others feelings about the same subject topic.

answer; protectionism fosters competition and keeps price regulated;