Lecture Notes on Theories of Emotion

Common Sense View

• Sequence of Events: Stimulus → Emotion → Bodily Arousal
  • Example: A frightening spectacle leads to feeling fear, causing sweating and increased heart rate.

James-Lange Theory

• Key Figures: William James and Karl Lange
• Concept: Contradicts the common-sense view.
  • Sequence: Stimulus → Bodily Arousal → Emotion
  • Example: Hero's sight makes villain's heart rate increase, hands tremble, and palms sweat, leading to feeling of fear.

Criticisms of James-Lange Theory

1. Independent Physiological Arousal
   • Can occur without emotion (e.g., sweating due to heat not causing nervousness).
2. Timing of Physiological Changes
   • Changes may be too slow compared to the immediate conscious experience of emotion.
3. Non-specific Physiological Responses
   • Similar physiological responses can correspond to different emotions (e.g., faster heart rate could indicate fear, anger, surprise, or joy).
4. Evidence Against Necessity of Physiological Feedback
   • Patients with spinal cord injuries experience emotions despite loss of physiological feedback.

Support for James-Lange Theory

• Slight Evidence: Some studies show a minimal effect on emotional reactions due to physiological changes.