JamesLangeelmélet

The James-Lange theory of emotion proposes that physiological arousal precedes and causes the subjective experience of emotion. Proposed independently by psychologist William James and physiologist Carl Lange in the 19th century, the theory suggests that we don't cry because we are sad, but rather we feel sad because we cry. In essence, the theory posits that an external stimulus triggers a physiological response in the body, such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, or changes in breathing. It is the awareness of these bodily changes that constitutes the emotional experience. For example, encountering a bear in the woods would cause a person's heart to race and muscles to tense. According to the James-Lange theory, the perception of these physiological changes would then lead to the feeling of fear. This stands in contrast to the common-sense view that an emotion is felt first, which then leads to a bodily reaction. While influential, the James-Lange theory has faced criticism, particularly regarding the idea that distinct physiological patterns correspond to every distinct emotion and the possibility of experiencing emotions without significant bodily changes.