Cognitive Appraisal Theory

Cognitive appraisal theory suggests that how we interpret and evaluate a situation influences our emotional responses. When faced with an event, we assess its significance and how it affects us, determining if it's a threat, challenge, or benign. This evaluation shapes our feelings—whether we feel anxious, excited, or indifferent. For example, receiving a promotion might be seen as a challenge (leading to excitement) or as a threat (leading to stress), depending on our appraisal. Essentially, our emotions are closely tied to our perceptions and thoughts about the circumstances we encounter.