cognitive appraisal
Cognitive appraisal refers to the process by which individuals assess and interpret situations, emotions, or events to understand their significance and emotional impact. It involves evaluating whether an event is a threat or opportunity, and how it affects one's well-being. This evaluation influences emotional responses, such as feeling anxious about a potential job loss or excited about a new opportunity. Essentially, cognitive appraisal shapes how we perceive situations and determine our emotional reactions, highlighting that our feelings often stem from our thoughts about the situation rather than the situation itself.
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Cognitive appraisal is the process by which individuals evaluate and interpret a situation to determine its significance for their well-being. When faced with an event—like a job interview or a stressful exam—people assess whether it represents a threat, challenge, or opportunity. This evaluation influences their emotional and behavioral responses. For example, viewing an interview as an opportunity may lead to excitement, while seeing it as a threat may cause anxiety. Understanding cognitive appraisal helps explain why different individuals react differently to the same situation based on their perceptions and interpretations.