Emotional psychology is a branch of psychology that is dedicated to the study of human emotions and their impact on behavior and mental health. Throughout history, various theories have emerged that seek to explain the origin, nature and function of emotions in human beings. In this article, we will explore some of the main theories of emotion that have influenced the field of emotional psychology.
Theory of emotions by William James and Carl Lange
One of the most influential theories in the field of emotional psychology is the theory of emotions by William James and Carl Lange. This theory proposes that emotions are the result of the interpretation of the body's physiological responses to external stimuli. In other words, according to this theory, we experience an emotion after perceiving a specific bodily emotion, such as increased heart rate or sweating.
William James and Carl Lange suggested that emotions are not simply reactions to external stimuli, but also involve physiological responses that trigger the emotional experience. For example, if a person encounters a poisonous snake, their heart might begin to beat rapidly, triggering fear and emotion associated with danger. In this sense, the James-Lange theory states that our physiological responses influence our emotions and not the other way around.
Criticisms of the James-Lange theory
Despite its influence and historical relevance, William James and Carl Lange's theory of emotions has also been the subject of criticism and controversy. Some critics argue that this theory does not take into account the complexity of human emotions and may be too simplistic in reducing emotions to physiological responses.
In addition, more recent research in neuroscience and psychology has shown that Emotions are the result of a complex interaction between physiological, cognitive and social processes. Therefore, while James-Lange theory has been influential in the field of emotional psychology, it does not provide a complete and exhaustive understanding of the nature of human emotions.
Theory of emotions Cannon-Bard
Another important theory in the study of emotions is the Cannon-Bard theory of emotions. This theory was proposed by the physiologist Walter Cannon and the psychologist Philip Bard, and states that physiological responses and emotions are independent processes that occur simultaneously in response to an emotional stimulus.
According to Cannon's theory- Bard, when a person encounters an emotional stimulus, their body experiences a physiological response and an emotion at the same time, but independently. For example, if a person witnesses a car accident, their heart may begin to beat rapidly and at the same time they may experience fear or distress. In this sense, the Cannon-Bard theory suggests that physiological responses and emotions are two separate processes that occur simultaneously.
Implications of the Cannon-Bard theory
Cannon-Bard theory has had a significant impact on the field of emotional psychology by highlighting the idea that physiological responses and emotions are not necessarily inseparably linked. This theory has led to a greater understanding of the complexity of human emotions and has opened new avenues of research into the relationship between the body and mind in emotional experience.
Some critics of Cannon's theory -Bard argue that it may oversimplify the relationship between physiological responses and emotions, and may not be able to account for the diversity and variability of human emotional experiences. However, this theory has been fundamental to advance the study of emotions and has contributed to enriching our understanding of the complexity of human nature.
Schachter-Singer theory of emotions
One of the most influential theories in the study of emotions is the Schachter-Singer theory of emotions, also known as the theory of emotion cognition. This theory was proposed by psychologists Stanley Schachter and Jerome Singer, and suggests that emotions are the result of the interaction between physiological responses and cognitive processes, such as interpretation and analysis of the situation.
According to the Schachter-Singer theory, when a person experiences an emotion, they first experience a nonspecific physiological response, such as tachycardia or sweating. This physiological response is then combined with the cognitive evaluation of the situation to produce a specific emotion. For example, if a person is in a dangerous situation, their physiological arousal response could combine with the cognitive evaluation of the situation to produce fear or anxiety.
Criticisms and controversies surrounding the theory of Schachter-Singer
Despite its influence on the field of emotional psychology, Schachter-Singer theory has also been the subject of criticism and controversy. Some critics argue that this theory could underestimate the importance of physiological responses in emotional experience and overvalue the role of cognitive processes in generating emotions.
In addition, more recent research in neuroscience and psychology has shown that emotions are the result of a complex interaction between physiological, cognitive and social processes, suggesting that the Schachter-Singer theory may be too simplistic in its explanation of the nature of human emotions. Despite these criticisms, the Schachter-Singer theory has been fundamental in advancing the understanding of the relationship between the body and the mind in emotional experience.
Paul Ekman's theory of emotions
Another important theory in the study of emotions is Paul Ekman's theory of emotions, known as the theory of the six basic emotions. Ekman identified six universal emotions that are recognized and expressed in the same way in all human cultures: happiness, sadness, fear, surprise, anger and disgust.
According to Ekman, these six basic emotions are innate and have Universal facial expressions that transcend cultural and linguistic differences. Ekman also suggests that these basic emotions play an important evolutionary role in human survival and adaptation to the environment, as they allow people to communicate and adapt to different situations effectively.
Criticisms of the theory by Paul Ekman
Despite its influence on the field of emotional psychology, Paul Ekman's theory of emotions has been the subject of criticism and controversy. Some critics argue that the idea of six universal basic emotions may oversimplify the complexity and diversity of human emotions, and may fail to account for individual and cultural variations in emotional experience.
Furthermore , more recent research has questioned the universality of the facial expressions of emotions proposed by Ekman, suggesting that these expressions may vary depending on the cultural and social context in which they occur. Despite these criticisms, Paul Ekman's theory has been fundamental in the study of human emotions and has contributed to enriching our understanding of the nature and function of emotions in human experience.
In Conclusion, theories of emotion have played a fundamental role in the advancement of emotional psychology by providing theoretical and conceptual frameworks to understand the nature, origin and function of emotions in humans. While these theories have been subject to criticism and controversy, they remain fundamental to the study of human emotions and to enrich our understanding of the complexity of human nature.