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Studying appraisal-driven emotion processes: taking stock and moving to the future
1a Department of Psychology , University of Geneva , Geneva , Switzerland.
Cognition & Emotion
|August 29, 2018
Summary
Cognitive appraisal theories of emotion are supported by new experimental evidence. Studies using electroencephalography and electromyography confirm that cognitive appraisals drive emotion components like physiological reactions and feelings.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cognitive Science
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Appraisal theories propose cognitive appraisals drive emotion components.
- The Component Process Model highlights appraisal's role in action tendencies, physiology, expressions, and feelings.
- Experimental validation of these complex emotion generation models has been challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To experimentally test predictions of appraisal theories of emotion.
- To investigate the influence of cognitive appraisals on emotion components.
- To examine the timing and interactions of appraisal checks in emotion generation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized experimental designs with appraisal manipulation.
- Employed electroencephalographic (EEG) and electromyographic (EMG) measures.
- Complemented previous research on self-reported appraisal.
Main Results:
- Empirical results confirmed theoretical predictions regarding appraisal effects.
- Demonstrated the impact of different appraisal checks on emotion components.
- Provided evidence for the timing and interactions of appraisal processes.
Conclusions:
- New experimental findings support appraisal theories of emotion.
- Cognitive appraisals are confirmed as drivers of emotion components.
- Future research needs interdisciplinary approaches to study emotion dynamics and coherence.
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