Cognition and emotion basics: emotion models (G15)

Question 1

What are the agreed upon basic emotions?

a. sadness, fear, surprise
b. anger, sadness, fear, disgust
c. happiness, frustration, anger

Answer 1

b. anger, sadness, fear, disgust

Question 2

What are categorical versus dimensional approaches to emotion?

Answer 2

The categorical approach towards emotions follows the idea that emotions are best defined by discrete and distinct categories. This approach argues for a clear set of basic and universal emotions. According to Ekman basic emotions are universal in antecedent events (are linked to universal goals), have distinct universal signals (such as facial expressions) and are accompanied by a distinct pattern of a physiological state.
The dimensional approach towards emotions follows the idea that emotions are categorized by distinctly defined dimensions. Full consensus hasn’t been reached on what these dimensions are: arousal and valence versus positive and negative affect.

Question 3

Which model explains the role of appraisal in emotions?

a. Cannon and Bard
b. Zajonc/ Le Doux
c. Mandler

Answer 3

c. Mandler

Question 4

Describe the James and Lange model briefly.

Answer 4

An event occurs and causes a bodily response which then is interpreted as an emotion.

Question 5

The model of social anxiety of Heimberg and Rapee accounts for the following symptoms of anxiety:

a. behavioural, affective, physiological
b. behavioural, cognitive, physical
c. behavioural, affective, psychological

Answer 5

b. behavioural, cognitive, physical

Question 6

Name the 2 main groups of theories of emotion , explain what they mean and give examples.

Answer 6

Network theories of emotion regard emotions as systems of causally connected concepts, whilst appraisal theories say that emotions involve not just physiological responses but also a cognitive interpretation.
Bower’s associative network theory is an example of a network theory of emotion that proposes that concepts, events and emotions can be represented as nodes within a network. Activation within the network and subsequent spread to adjoining nodes depends on proximity, strength and time. (or another example: Lang’s 3-system theory)
Mandler’s theory is an example of an appraisal theory of emotion where physiological arousal is thought to arise from a perceived discrepancy/interruption of a current goal/plan. Therefore, emotions result from a combination of arousal and discrepancy. (or other examples: Weiner’s theory, Lazaruz’s appraisal theory, etc.)