Affect

Affect refers to the observable expression of a person's emotional state, encompassing facial expressions, tone of voice, gestures, and overall demeanor. It reflects how someone outwardly shows their feelings at a given moment. Affect can be described as flat (minimal emotional expression),Range of emotions, or appropriate to the situation. Clinicians often assess affect to understand a person’s emotional well-being and to identify signs of mental health conditions. It provides insight into internal emotional experiences by observing outward cues, helping to create a more comprehensive picture of a person’s psychological state.