Notes on the Canon-Bard Theory of Emotion

Introduction

• The Canon-Bard Theory is one of the key theories of emotion.
• Created by critics of the James-Lange Theory.

Criticism of James-Lange Theory

• Canon and Bard disagreed with the James-Lange Theory.
• James-Lange Theory suggests that physiological response precedes and causes emotion.

Canon-Bard Theory Explained

• Key Concept: Stimulus leads to simultaneous emotion and physiological response.
  • Emotion and physiological response occur independently.
  • Neither causes the other.

Example

• Stimulus: Sight of wild animals (e.g., lions, tigers, bears).
• Response:
  • Emotion: Fear
  • Physiological Response: Sweating, increased heart rate
• Both responses happen at the same time, independently.

Summary

• Canon-Bard Theory posits that after a stimulus, emotion and physiological response occur simultaneously.
• This theory emphasizes independence between emotional and physiological reactions.