Emotion Theory

Emotion theory studies how emotions arise, function, and are expressed. Most theories recognize the interplay of physiological arousal (increased heartrate), cognitive appraisal (how we interpret a situation), and behavioral responses (facial expressions, body language) to explain the sequence of events leading to an emotional experience. Theories:

• James-Lange theory suggests physiological arousal comes first, then interpreting that arousal leads to the experience of emotion. 
• Cannon-Bard theory proposes physiological arousal and emotional experience are simultaneous, both triggered by a stimulus. 
• Schachter-Singer two-factor theory argues physiological arousal is not enough to determine an emotion. Cognitive appraisal is necessary to label the emotion.