Theories of Emotion and Their Mechanisms

James-Lange Theory

Emotions happen because of physical arousal. Order: Stimulus → Physical Response → Emotion. Example: You see a bear → Your heart races → You feel fear.

Cannon-Bard Theory

Physical response and emotion happen at the same time. Order: Stimulus → Brain → Emotion and Physical Response. Example: You see a bear → Your brain processes it → You feel fear and your body reacts at the same time.

Schachter-Singer (Two-Factor) Theory

Emotion = Physical Arousal + Cognitive Label. Order: Stimulus → Physical Response → Interpretation → Emotion. Example: You see a bear → Heart races → You think "This is dangerous" → You feel fear.

Common Sense Theory

Emotion comes before the body's response. Order: Stimulus → Emotion → Physical Response. Example: You see a bear → You feel fear → Heart races.

Zajonc and LeDoux Theory

Some emotions happen instantly without thinking. Zajonc: Emotions can come before cognition. LeDoux: Some emotions (like fear) take the "low road" (bypassing thinking brain areas). Example: You jump in fear before realizing it's just a shadow.

Facial Feedback Hypothesis

Facial expressions can influence your emotions. Example: Holding a pencil in your mouth like a smile can actually improve mood.

Broaden-and-Build Theory

Positive emotions help expand our thinking and build long-term resources (like relationships, knowledge, skills). Example: A happy person may explore new hobbies, build social connections, and be more resilient over time.