Emocions

Emocions are subjective experiences of affective states that arise in response to events, thoughts, or stimuli. In many languages the term corresponds to the English "emotions," and in psychological literature it denotes a coordinated pattern of feeling, physiological arousal, and cognitive appraisal that guides perception and action. Emocions differ from moods in duration and specificity, though they interact and can influence longer-lasting affective states.

Affective experience typically comprises three components: a subjective feeling, physiological changes (such as heart rate or skin conductance), and appraisal processes that interpret the significance of the triggering event. Expressions through facial cues, voice tones, and body language communicate emocions to others and can prompt social coordination.

Neuroscience identifies networks involved in emotion processing, including the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, insula, and cingulate regions. The autonomic nervous system supports arousal and physiological readiness, while neurotransmitter systems influence intensity and valence. Emocions have adaptive functions, signaling rewarding or threatening aspects of environments, guiding learning, decision making, and social interaction.

Theoretical approaches diverge on whether emocions are discrete states (basic emotions such as joy, fear, anger, sadness, disgust, surprise) or dimensions along valence and arousal. Cultural and individual factors shape how emocions are felt, labeled, and expressed, as well as how they are regulated.

Measurement relies on self-report, behavioral observation, physiological indicators, and, in research, neuroimaging. The study of emocions integrates philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, and anthropology to explain their origins, functions, and influence on behavior.