Emotional Life: Neurobiology, Depression, and Affect Intensity

What are the dispositional characteristics of unpleasant emotions?

They include neuroticism, depressed and anxious mood, and low agreeableness associated with anger/hostility.

What does Eysenck's Biological Theory suggest about neuroticism?

It posits high reactivity in the limbic system, anterior cingulate cortex, and prefrontal cortex, affecting threat evaluation and executive control.

What is the diathesis-stress model in relation to depression?

It explains depression as a combination of predisposition and situational factors.

Which neurotransmitters are associated with depression according to the neurotransmitter theory?

Serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.

What are the three areas affected by Beck's cognitive model of depression?

Negative views of the self, the world, and the future.

What is rumination in the context of depression?

It refers to the repetitive focus on negative thoughts and feelings.

What are cognitive distortions commonly found in individuals with depression?

These include overgeneralizing, personalizing, and catastrophizing.

What does 'depressive realism' suggest about the views of depressed individuals?

It questions whether their views are distorted or if they lack unrealistic optimism.

What is the relationship between anger proneness and brain activity?

Decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex is related to anger proneness and potential for hostility.

What characterizes high affect intensity in emotional life?

Experiencing emotions strongly with drastic variability in emotional responses.

How is low affect intensity characterized?

It involves gradual minor fluctuations in emotional experiences.

What is the emotional experience of frequent positive affect with low intensity?

It is experienced as contentment, easygoing composure, serenity, and tranquil calmness.

What does frequent negative affect with low intensity lead to?

Chronic melancholia, mild but persistent unhappiness, dejection, and discontentment.

What emotional experience is associated with high affect intensity and frequent negative affect?

Exuberance, animated joyfulness, zestful enthusiasm, and acute negative affect such as distress and anxiety.

What are the two dimensions of emotion discussed?

Emotional content (types of experiences) and emotional style (typical ways of experiencing emotions).

What types of emotional content are considered pleasant?

Happiness and joy.

What types of emotional content are considered unpleasant?

Anger, anxiety, and depression.