Psychology: James-Lange Theory of Emotion

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Questions and Answers

What does the James-Lange theory of emotion propose?

Emotions arise directly from physiological arousal. (correct)

Physiological changes occur as a result of cognitive appraisal.

Emotional experiences dictate physiological changes.

Emotions are learned through social interactions.

Which response is associated with the activation of the sympathetic nervous system?

Increased heart rate and respiration when threatened. (correct)

Decreased heart rate and relaxation.

Immediate critical thinking and problem-solving.

Increased digestion and salivation.

According to the James-Lange theory, when does one experience fear?

Simultaneously with physiological changes.

As a result of cognitive evaluation of a situation.

Only after physiological arousal has taken place. (correct)

Before physiological changes occur.

What physiological response exemplifies the fight-or-flight reaction?

Increased heart rate and rapid breathing. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main premise of the fight-or-flight response?

It prepares the body to either confront or escape a threat. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the Cannon-Bard theory propose about the relationship between physiological arousal and emotional experience?

Physiological arousal and emotional experience occur simultaneously and independently. (A) Signup and view all the answers

In the Schachter-Singer two-factor theory, what plays a crucial role in the formation of emotional experiences?

Cognitive interpretation of physiological states. (D) Signup and view all the answers

According to Lazarus’ cognitive-mediational theory, what mediates the relationship between stimulus and emotional response?

The appraisal of the stimulus. (B) Signup and view all the answers

How does the James-Lange theory of emotion differ fundamentally from the Cannon-Bard theory?

It suggests emotions arise from specific physiological changes. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature of the Schachter-Singer theory that distinguishes it from the James-Lange theory?

It claims that people's interpretations of arousal can shape the emotions they experience. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What role does the cerebral cortex have in the Cannon-Bard theory?

It associates sensory information with learned emotional responses. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of emotional response does Lazarus' cognitive-mediational theory emphasize?

The immediate appraisal of stimuli before emotions arise. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the Cannon-Bard theory from the other two theories discussed?

It claims that physiological responses and emotions happen simultaneously but independently. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

James-Lange Theory

Developed in the late 1800s by William James and Carl Lange.
Proposes that emotions are physical responses to environmental stimuli.
Physiological changes like increased heart rate or sweating lead to emotional experiences.
Example: Laughing causes happiness; crying leads to sadness.
In a threatening situation, physiological arousal occurs first, followed by the emotional experience (e.g., fear from encountering a venomous snake).
Different physiological arousal patterns correspond to different emotions.
The sympathetic nervous system is activated during stress, preparing the body for "fight or flight."

Cannon-Bard Theory

Developed in the 1920s by Walter Cannon and Philip Bard.
Argues that physiological arousal and emotional experience occur simultaneously and independently.
For instance, seeing a venomous snake triggers fear and physiological responses at the same time.
Emotional expressions are linked to activation in subcortical brain centers, particularly the optic thalamus.
Sensory input is processed in the cerebral cortex, which associates the emotional stimulus with conditioned responses.

Schachter-Singer Two-Factor Theory

Introduced by Schachter and Singer in 1962, also known as the two-factor theory of emotion.
Emotion arises from two interacting factors: physiological arousal and cognitive interpretation.
Cognitive labeling of physiological changes contextualizes emotional experiences (e.g., fear from seeing a snake).
Contrary to the James-Lange theory, it suggests that physiological changes alone do not determine emotions; interpretation plays a crucial role.
Individuals interpret emotions based on their physiological state and situational context.

Lazarus’ Cognitive-Mediational Theory

Developed by Richard S. Lazarus in 1991.
Emphasizes the importance of appraisal in determining emotions.
Appraisal acts as a mediator between stimulus and emotional response, often occurring unconsciously.
Suggests that appraisal precedes cognitive labeling, simultaneously spurring physiological and emotional responses.
Contrasts with the Schachter-Singer theory, highlighting that the immediate appraisal directly influences emotional and physiological experiences.

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Description

Explore the James-Lange theory developed by William James and Carl Lange in the late 1800s. This quiz will test your understanding of how emotions are linked to physiological responses, as presented by these pioneering psychologists. Get ready to dive into the intricacies of emotional experiences!