The Affect System

The Affect System is a psychological framework that describes how our emotions influence our thoughts, behaviors, and overall mental state. It involves the automatic, often subconscious, processes through which we experience feelings like happiness, anger, fear, or sadness. This system helps us quickly evaluate our environment and respond appropriately, shaping our mood and motivation. Essentially, it acts as an emotional filter, impacting our perceptions and actions based on our current emotional state. Understanding the Affect System can help explain how emotions affect decision-making, relationships, and mental health.