Emotions PDF

Emotions The word ‘emotion’ is derived from Latin word, "emovere" which means ‘to excite or ‘to stir up’. In common usage, emotion is referred to as a subjective feeling. Emotion can be defined as "an affective experience that accompanies gene...

Emotions The word ‘emotion’ is derived from Latin word, "emovere" which means ‘to excite or ‘to stir up’. In common usage, emotion is referred to as a subjective feeling. Emotion can be defined as "an affective experience that accompanies generalized inner adjustment and mental and physiological stirred-up states in the individual and that shows itself in his overt behavior". Characteristic of Emotion: 1. Emotions are accompanied by both physiological and cognitive changes. 2. Emotions make us physically active. Ex, a person can run faster when in fear. 3. Emotions motivate us to perform activities. 4. Emotions are either positive or negative (pleasant or unpleasant). 5. Emotions influence behavior. Classifications of Emotions 1. Primary and mixed emotions 2. Pleasant (positive) and unpleasant (Negative) emotions 3. Unconscious emotional motivations. Components of Emotion 1. Subjective feelings 2. Emotional expression or expressive behavior (facial, vocal, and bodily movements) 3. Physiological changes 4. conscious experience Theories of Emotion The major theories of emotion can be grouped into three main categories: Physiological, Neurological, and Cognitive theories. 1 1- The James-Lange Theory This theory is an example of the physiological theory of emotion. It was independently suggested by two psychologists: William James and physiologist Carl Lange. The James-Lange theory of emotion proposes that emotions happen as a result of physiological responses to events. So according this theory, there is an external stimulus that guides to a physiological response. 2- The Cannon-Bard Theory of Emotion This theory states that individuals feel emotions and experience physiological reactions such as sweating, trembling and muscle tension simultaneously. More specially, it proposes that emotions result when the thalamus sends a message to the brain in response to a stimulus, resulting in a physiological reaction. 3- Schachter-Singer Theory The Schachter-Singer Theory is an example of a cognitive theory of emotion. It is also known as the two-factor theory of emotion. This theory suggests that the physiological arousal occurs first, and then the individual must recognize the cause behind this arousal in order to experience and label it as an emotion. The Biological Basis of Emotion  Right cerebral hemisphere plays important role in emotional functions. Right hemisphere is specialized for processing emotional information.  Activation of the left cerebral hemisphere is associated with positive affect.  Activation of the right cerebral hemisphere is associated with negative affect.  Activation of anterior portion of both hemispheres is associated with value (pleasantness/unpleasantness) of emotion. 2   Activation of the posterior portion of both hemispheres is associated with arousal the intensity of emotion. Anger Management Anger is a completely normal, usually healthy, human emotion. But when it gets out of control and turns destructive, it can lead to problems. Aggression: an action we take with anger or frustration against others. It can lead to emotional, physiological or social negative consequences. Hostility: a state of chronic anger that can lead to aggression against others. It can be verbal, physical or emotional. The Dimensions of Anger (ABCs of Anger) A : Antecedent or Anger Trigger: What stimulated the anger response B : Behavior: Reaction provoked by anger C : Consequence: What happened as a result of controlling or not controlling one’s anger. Physiological Signs of Anger Direct signs Indirect signs - Rapid voice - Chronic fatigue - Yelling, cursing - Excessive sleeping - Headache - Anxiety - Stomachache - Depression - Increased heart rate - Crying - Increased blood pressure - Mean or hostile joking 3  - Clenched fists - Appetite changes - Red face - Muscle aches - Tightness in throat/ chest - Verbal/physical abuse Steps to Anger Management  Identify personal signals of anger  Identify self-talk techniques  Learn problem-solving skills  Learn relaxation skills (deep breathing, progressive relaxation) Skills needed in dealing with anger: 1. Identify a range of feelings including anger 2. Identify aggressive acts by self and others 3. Identify the potential consequences to self and others from these aggressive acts 4. Identify self-destructive behavior 5. Identify thoughts prior to aggressive acts 6. Identify internal cues to feelings of anger 7. Develop coping mechanisms for dealing with anger 8. Express anger without loss of control Ways to Keep Cool: 1. Get exercise every day. 2. Eat right. 3. Get enough sleep. 4. Learn to relax. 5. Know your feelings. 6. Write about those feelings. 4 7. Find a quiet place. 8. Take a time out. 9. Find fun distractions. 10.Make good decisions about what you see and hear. 11.Choose friends who make you feel good. 12.Learn to forgive and forget. 5