What is the primary concept behind the James-Lange theory of emotion?

What is the primary concept behind the James-Lange theory of emotion?

• A. Emotion causes physiological changes
• B. Physiological arousal precedes emotional experience
• C. Emotion is an instinctive response to stimuli
• D. Emotions are learned through social interactions

Answer: (B)

The primary concept behind the James-Lange theory of emotion is that physiological arousal precedes emotional experience. According to this theory, an individual first experiences a physiological response to a stimulus—such as an increased heart rate or sweating. Following this physiological change, the individual then interprets these bodily responses as a specific emotion. For example, if you see a bear and your heart starts racing, the theory posits that you would label that physiological response as fear. This understanding differentiates the James-Lange theory from other theories of emotion, which might suggest that emotions arise directly from cognitive processes or social learning. The key aspect of the James-Lange theory is the emphasis on the body's physical reactions as the initial component of the emotional experience, thereby shaping our understanding of how emotions are processed.

The primary concept behind the James-Lange theory of emotion is that physiological arousal precedes emotional experience. According to this theory, an individual first experiences a physiological response to a stimulus—such as an increased heart rate or sweating. Following this physiological change, the individual then interprets these bodily responses as a specific emotion. For example, if you see a bear and your heart starts racing, the theory posits that you would label that physiological response as fear.

This understanding differentiates the James-Lange theory from other theories of emotion, which might suggest that emotions arise directly from cognitive processes or social learning. The key aspect of the James-Lange theory is the emphasis on the body's physical reactions as the initial component of the emotional experience, thereby shaping our understanding of how emotions are processed.