Émotion

Émotion, or emotion in English, is a complex and transient affective experience that integrates a subjective feeling, physiological arousal, and cognitive appraisal in response to a stimulus or event. It is distinct from mood, which is longer lasting and generally less intense, and from affect, the broader observable valence of feeling states. Emotions are often accompanied by expressive cues such as facial movements or vocal changes and can influence perception, decision-making, and action.

Core components include the subjective experience of the feeling, autonomic or physiological changes (such as heart rate or skin conductance), and cognitive appraisal of meaning, relevance, and value. Emotions are frequently categorized as basic or discrete (for example happiness, sadness, fear, anger, surprise, disgust), though many theories allow blends and social or self-conscious emotions such as pride, guilt, or shame.

Theoretical approaches to emotion vary. Darwin argued for the universality of emotional expressions across cultures. The James–Lange theory suggests that emotions follow from physiological changes. The Cannon–Bard model posits parallel emotional and physiological processes. The two-factor theory (Schachter–Singer) emphasizes arousal plus cognitive labeling. Appraisal theories focus on interpretation and meaning, while dimensional models describe emotions along axes such as valence and arousal.

Cultural and methodological considerations note that expression and regulation of emotion can differ across societies, even as some responses are common to humans. Measurement relies on self-report, physiological indicators, and facial coding. Emotion regulation, including strategies like reappraisal or suppression, shapes experience and behavior.

Functions include guiding learning and decision-making, mediating social interaction, and signaling information about needs and risks. Emotions can be adaptive, but dysregulation may contribute to psychological distress.