Emotion Theories

Emotion theories explore how and why humans experience feelings. Some theories suggest emotions result from physiological responses to events (e.g., racing heart when scared). Others propose that our thoughts and interpretations shape emotions, meaning we feel afraid because we interpret a situation as dangerous. Some theories, like the cognitive appraisal theory, emphasize our evaluations of events. Evolutionary perspectives see emotions as adaptive tools for survival, guiding behaviors like fleeing or approaching. Overall, emotion theories help explain the complex relationship between our brain, body, and environment in producing feelings.