According to the James-Lange theory of emotion, when do we become aware of our emotions?

According to the James-Lange theory of emotion, when do we become aware of our emotions?

• A. Before any physiological reaction
• B. Simultaneously with cognitive appraisal
• C. After noticing physiological reactions to external events
• D. Only when we express the emotion physically

Answer: (C)

The James-Lange theory of emotion posits that our emotional experiences are a result of physiological reactions to stimuli in our environment. According to this theory, we first experience a physiological response to an event (such as increased heart rate, sweating, or trembling) and then become aware of our feelings as a consequence of these physiological changes. In essence, the theory suggests that we interpret our physiological reactions to determine what emotion we are feeling. Therefore, we become aware of our emotions only after we notice our bodily responses to an external event. This is foundational to the James-Lange perspective, which emphasizes the sequence of physiological response leading to emotional awareness, distinguishing it from other theories that consider cognitive appraisal or emotional expression as precursors to emotional awareness.

The James-Lange theory of emotion posits that our emotional experiences are a result of physiological reactions to stimuli in our environment. According to this theory, we first experience a physiological response to an event (such as increased heart rate, sweating, or trembling) and then become aware of our feelings as a consequence of these physiological changes. In essence, the theory suggests that we interpret our physiological reactions to determine what emotion we are feeling.

Therefore, we become aware of our emotions only after we notice our bodily responses to an external event. This is foundational to the James-Lange perspective, which emphasizes the sequence of physiological response leading to emotional awareness, distinguishing it from other theories that consider cognitive appraisal or emotional expression as precursors to emotional awareness.