Understanding Theories of Emotion

Emotion

A feeling that involves our thoughts, body reactions, and actions; influenced by what happens inside of us around us

Elicitors

Stimuli or events that trigger an emotional response in an individual; regulate how different people display or interpret emotions

Arousal comes before emotion

Emotions follow bodily arousal; we feel sad because we cry, and we are afraid because we tremble

Facial feedback hypothesis

Facial expressions influence emotions; smiling can make you feel happier while frowning can make you feel sadder

Arousal and emotion occur simultaneously

Arousal and emotion occur simultaneously and independently; an emotion-triggering stimulus. causes both

Broaden and build theory of emotion

Positive emotions help us think more openly and try new things while negative emotions make us think narrowly and act less

Universal emotions

Certain emotional expressions are recognized and experienced similarly across different cultures

Display rules

Cultural norms that dictate how, when, and where individuals should express their emotions