Review of Unit 4: Emotion

Overview

• Unit 4 focuses on emotions, also known as affect, a complex psychological state involving physiological responses.
• Emotions are influenced by internal factors (bodily changes, thoughts, memories) and external factors (environmental situations, social interactions, sensory stimuli).

Theories of Emotion

James-Lange Theory

• Suggests physiological changes precede cognitive experiences, resulting in emotions.
• Example: Physiological response (e.g., increased heart rate) leads to emotional experience (joy, fear).

Cannon-Bard Theory

• Argues that physiological and cognitive experiences of emotion occur simultaneously.
• Example: When scared, heart races and fear is experienced at the same time.

Schachter-Singer Two-Factor Theory

• Emphasizes emotions stemming from physiological arousal and cognitive labeling.
• Example: Encountering a spider, feeling aroused, and interpreting this as fear.

Facial Feedback Hypothesis

• Suggests facial expressions can influence emotional experience.
• Smiling can lead to feeling happier; frowning can increase sadness.
• Mixed evidence on the validity of this hypothesis.

Broaden and Build Theory

• Positive emotions broaden an individual's awareness, encouraging creativity and new experiences.
• Negative emotions narrow focus, which can be beneficial for problem-solving.
• Positive emotions help build personal resources (social connections, knowledge, coping strategies).

Culture and Emotion

Universality of Emotions

• Some emotions (anger, disgust, sadness, happiness, surprise, fear) recognized across cultures.
• Cultural differences influence recognition and interpretation of emotions.

Display Rules

• Social guidelines vary by culture, dictating when, where, and how emotions are expressed.
• Example: Asian cultures may promote modest emotional displays; Western cultures are more expressive.
• Factors influencing display rules: Group norms, individual differences, situational context.

Elicitors of Emotion

• Events or stimuli that trigger emotional responses vary by individual.
• Influenced by culture, sex, age, socioeconomic status.
• Personal histories and experiences shape emotional reactions to stimuli.

Conclusion

• Unit 4 summary video available for a comprehensive review.
• Practice quizzes, study guides included in the ultimate review packet.
• Further study recommended for understanding and mastering the concepts of emotion.