Emotions

Question 1

What is the device used in a polygraph machine to detect finger pulse volume?

Answer 1

The device is called a Plethysmograph. It measures blood flow and volume changes at the fingertip, helping detect physiological responses during a polygraph test.

Question 2

Who and when developed the ‘Three-Dimensional Classification’ of emotions?

Answer 2

The Three-Dimentional Classification of emotions, in other names 3D classification model of emotions / Circumplex Model of Emotions was developed by psychologist Robert Plutchik in 1980. This model classifies emotions into a 3 dimensional framework by organizing them in a wheel-like structure. It identifies 8 primary emotions arranged in a circular structure, along with variations of these emotions displayed vertically within each category to represent different levels of intensity (Ex: annoyance, anger and rage are different levels of intensity of a primary emotion - anger).

8 Primary emotions of 3D classification model:
1. Joy
2. Trust
3. Fear
4. Surprise
5. Sadness
6. Disgust
7. Anger
8. Anticipation

These emotions can vary in intensity and combine to form complex emotional experiences.

(Anticipation refers to the feeling of awareness and expectation about something that is going to happen in the future. It involves mentally preparing for an event or outcome, whether positive or negative.)

Question 3

What is the structure of the nervous system?

Answer 3

The nervous system in our body is divided into two main types:

1. Central Nervous System (CNS):
   
   • Includes the brain and spinal cord.
2. Peripheral Nervous System (PNS):
   
   • Comprises all nerves outside the CNS.
   • Further divided into:
     
     • Somatic Nervous System: Controls skeletal muscles (voluntary actions).
     • Autonomic Nervous System: Controls the autonomic functions of organs (involuntary actions).

The Autonomic Nervous System is further divided into Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nervous Systems:

• Sympathetic Nervous System:
  
  • Activates the “fight or flight” response.
  • Causes dilation of pupils, acceleration of heart rate, and inhibition of intestinal activity.
• Parasympathetic Nervous System:
  
  • Promotes “rest and digest” activities.
  • Causes constriction of pupils, deceleration of heart rate, and normalization of intestinal activity.

In general:
- Sympathetic activity increases physiological arousal to prepare the organism for vigorous activity.
- Parasympathetic activity reduces physiological arousal and restores homeostatic balance.

Question 4

What is EEG?

Answer 4

EEG stands for Electroencephalogram. It reflects the brain’s electrical activity and is recorded using metal electrodes attached to the scalp.

• EEG is a component of polygraph machine used to study brain wave patterns.