The James-Lange Theory of Emotion (Key Theory)

• What does the James-Lange Theory of Emotion state?

  Physiological arousal comes before emotion
• How does physiological arousal occur according to the James-Lange Theory?

  An event triggers the hypothalamus and ANS
• What role does adrenaline play in physiological arousal?

  It creates physiological arousal like increased heart rate
• What happens after physiological arousal according to the theory?

  The brain interprets physiological activity as emotions
• What emotion might be felt after meeting a bear in the forest?

  Fear
• What does the theory suggest about the relationship between physical changes and emotions?

  No physical changes mean no emotions are felt
• If a person's heart rate does not increase while speaking in front of a class, what emotion do they likely not feel?

  Fear
• What is a strength of the James-Lange Theory?

  It has real-life examples supporting it
• How does a phobia relate to the James-Lange Theory?

  Phobias can develop from physiological arousal
• What is a weakness of the James-Lange Theory?

  It is challenged by the Cannon-Bard theory
• What does the Cannon-Bard theory suggest about emotions?

  Some emotions occur simultaneously with arousal
• What is another weakness of the James-Lange Theory?

  It may be too simple to explain emotions
• What do Schachter and Singer's findings suggest about emotions?

  We need arousal plus social cues to label emotions
• How does the James-Lange Theory fail according to Schachter and Singer?

  It does not explain how emotions are decided