Theories of Emotion

Emotion

a complex psychological state that involves a subjective experience, physiological response, and behavioral or expressive response.

Elicitors

of emotion are stimuli or events that provoke an emotional response, such as external events, memories, or thoughts.

James Lange Theory

is a theory that suggests emotions are the result of physiological reactions to events, meaning that we feel emotions after our bodies respond to stimuli.

Facial-Feedback Hypothesis

is a theory suggesting that facial expressions can influence emotional experiences, indicating that we may experience emotions more intensely when we mimic corresponding facial expressions.

Cannon Bard Theory

is a theory suggesting that emotions and physiological reactions occur simultaneously and independently in response to stimuli.

Schachter-Singer Theory

is a theory proposing that emotional experience is based on physiological arousal and cognitive interpretation of that arousal, meaning we label our emotions based on the context of our experiences.

Broaden-and-Build Theory of Emotion

is a theory that suggests positive emotions expand cognitive processes and build personal resources, enhancing an individual's ability to cope with challenges.

Universal Emotion

Display Rules

are social norms that dictate how and when emotions should be expressed in various cultures.