Theories Of Emotions Summary

Question 1

Evolutionary theories

Answer 1

Evolutionary theories study the adaptive function and biological markers of basic emotions. Example Darwin and Ackman

Question 2

Physiological theories

Answer 2

Physiological theories say with responses with in the body are responsible for emotions. Example James-Lange and Cannon-Bard

Question 3

Cognitive- Appraisal theory

Answer 3

Cognitive appraisal theories study how differences in interpretation cause people to have different emotions in the same circumstances. Thoughts appraisals and other mental activity play in a central role in forming emotions. Includes Schacter-Singer, Magda Arnold (Appraisal theory), Richard Lazarus (cognitive mediation or theory)

Question 4

Psychological Constructionist theory

Answer 4

Argues knowledge about emotion creates emotional states, which explains the variation – both within and across individuals – and how emotions look and feel. Feldman, Barrett et al.

Question 5

Comparing Theories of Emotion

Answer 5

Theory…………. Stimulus….. Time……………….. Result

J-L …………….. Arousal ……. Physiological ……….. Feeling (Emotion)

C-B ……………. Arousal ………………………………….. Physiological & Feeling (Emo)

S-S ……………. Arousal ……. Physiol & Cog label… Feeling (Emotion)

L (cog-med)… Arousal ……. Appraisal ………………. Physiological & Feeling (Emo)

Question 6

What is the definition of a theory of emotion & what are the four components that vary between these?

Answer 6

Testable statement about origin and structure of an emotion. The four components are

Antecedents (causes)

Biological given (aspects of emotion that are genetically inherited)

Components

Integration (how different components are integrated)