Subjective Experience
Emotions may seem straightforward—something happens in the world, and we react internally. But while this makes sense, our emotional lives remain subjective and unpredictable.
Not everyone responds to the same situation in the same way. If two people wake up to a rainy sky, one might feel disappointed, while the other feels peaceful.
Physiological Responses
Our bodies physically respond to emotions in measurable ways.
- Fear can make your heart race.
- Attraction might cause your pupils to dilate.
These physiological reactions are often universal, providing clear signals of our internal emotions.
Basic Emotions
Psychologists recognize six basic emotions that are universally expressed through facial expressions:
- Joy
- Sadness
- Surprise
- Fear
- Disgust
- Anger
Because these emotions are universal, scientists believe they have an evolutionary purpose, helping humans survive and adapt.
How Do We Experience Emotions?
Psychologists continue to debate how emotions work. There are five well-known theories:
1. James-Lange Theory
- Physiological reactions (like a racing heart) happen first.
- These reactions stimulate the autonomic nervous system.
- The brain then interprets the reaction as an emotion.
2. Facial-Feedback Theory
- Facial expressions influence emotions.
- Smiling can make you feel happy, while frowning can create sadness.
3. Cannon-Bard Theory
- Physical and emotional responses happen simultaneously.
- When an event occurs, both your body and your brain react at the same time.
4. Schachter-Singer Theory
- Physiological responses happen first.
- Then, we try to label the response with an emotion (e.g., "My heart is beating fast, I must be scared").
5. Cognitive Appraisal Theory
- Thought comes first—before any emotion or physical reaction.
- You assess a situation, decide how to feel, and then experience the emotional and physiological response.
Emotions are complex, but they shape our experiences and interactions in profound ways. While science continues to explore their mysteries, we all live them every day.
