There are various models of emotional arousal, and different models may use different terminology and stages. However, a common and widely recognized model, often attributed to Stanley Schachter and Jerome Singer, suggests five stages of emotional arousal:
1. Stimulus:
This is the initial event or trigger that sets off the emotional response. It can be external, like a sudden loud noise, or internal, like a memory or thought.
- Example: You are walking down the street when you see a dog running towards you.
2. Physiological Arousal:
The stimulus triggers physiological changes in your body, including increased heart rate, breathing, and muscle tension. This is your body's way of preparing to respond to the situation.
- Example: Your heart starts pounding, your breathing becomes faster, and your muscles tense up.
3. Cognitive Appraisal:
You interpret the stimulus and the physiological arousal. This involves determining the meaning of the situation and deciding how to respond.
- Example: You think "This dog looks aggressive, I need to protect myself."
4. Subjective Feeling:
This is the conscious experience of the emotion. You feel the emotion, such as fear, anxiety, or anger.
- Example: You feel a surge of fear and start to feel anxious.
5. Behavioral Response:
This is your outward reaction to the emotion. It can include actions like running away, confronting the situation, or freezing.
- Example: You turn and run in the opposite direction.
These five stages work together to create a complete emotional response. They are not always distinct and can overlap, but understanding them can help us better understand how emotions work.
