Emotions

Paper Summary:

This paper reviews the extent to which psychological research produced new and substantial ideas about emotions that were not available twenty five years ago. It looks at how empirical science has encouraged development in the area of emotional research in psychology in a way that philosophy and armchair reflection are incapable of.

Outline
Ideas, Models and Theories
Critical Evaluation of Theories and Research

From the Paper:

"The field of positive psychology holds new promise, suggesting there are methods to improve the collective functioning of individuals, the psychological well-being of individuals and the physical health of individuals by "harnessing the power of positive psychology" (Fredrickson, 330). Such approaches however require that psychologists continue to explore the "life-enhancing" effects of positive emotions and explore the exact mechanisms leading to health benefits when positive emotions are encouraged. These new studies suggest human happiness and strength may derive from positive emotions. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Aspinwall, L.G. & Staudinger, U.M. (2003). A psychology of human strengths: Fundamental questions and future directions of positive psychology. Washington DC: American Psychological Association.
• Cirillo, L., Kaplan, B. & Wapner, S. (1989). Emotions in ideal human development. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.
• Fredrickson, B.L. (2003, July-Aug). "The value of positive emotions: The emerging science of positive psychology is coming to understand why it is good to feel good." American Scientist, 91(4): 330.
• Fredrickson, B.L. (2001). "The role of positive emotions in positive psychology: The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions." American Psychologist, 56(1): 218.
• Fredrickson, B.L. & Joiner, T. (2002). "Positive emotions trigger upward spirals toward emotional well being." Psychological Science, 13(1): 172

More papers on Emotions:

• Research Paper # 2151 : "Emotions and Feelings in the Decision Making Process"
• Article Review # 108834 : "Young Children's Understanding of Emotions"
• Essay # 90460 : "Emotions in "Christ at Thirty-Three"
• Article Review # 119703 : "Anthropology of Emotions"

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