JoVE Logo

Accedi

8.13 : Physiology of Emotion

The physiology of emotions is a multifaceted process involving the autonomic nervous system, brain structures, hormones, and neurotransmitters. This intricate interplay dictates how emotions manifest in the body and influence behavior.

Autonomic Nervous System

The autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a critical role in emotional responses by regulating involuntary physiological functions. It consists of two main components: the sympathetic and parasympathetic systems. The sympathetic system activates during emotional arousal, increasing heart rate, accelerating breathing, dilating pupils, and causing dry mouth. These physiological responses, commonly known as the "fight or flight" reaction, prepare the body to respond to stress or danger. Conversely, the parasympathetic system promotes relaxation and recovery, restoring the body to a calm state after a stressful event.

Brain Structures and Emotional Regulation

Critical brain structures like the hypothalamus and amygdala are central to regulating emotions. The hypothalamus connects the nervous system to the endocrine systems, influencing hormone release. The amygdala is essential for processing emotions such as fear and aggression. Individuals with damage to the amygdala show impaired ability to recognize these emotions in others, highlighting its importance in social and emotional perception. The cerebral cortex also contributes to emotional processing, with its hemispheres showing distinct roles: the left hemisphere is more active during positive emotions, such as happiness, while the right hemisphere is more active during negative emotions, including sadness and anxiety.

Hormones and Neurotransmitters

Hormonal fluctuations significantly impact emotional states. When elevated, a stress hormone called cortisol increases stress and anxiety. In contrast, oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," fosters social bonding and feelings of trust. Neurotransmitters also modulate emotions; low serotonin levels are linked to aggression, while dopamine is associated with pleasure and reward mechanisms. This complex network of systems and signals underlies the diverse range of human emotions.

Tags

Physiology Of EmotionsAutonomic Nervous SystemSympathetic SystemParasympathetic SystemBrain StructuresEmotional RegulationHypothalamusAmygdalaHormonesNeurotransmittersCortisolOxytocinSerotoninDopamineEmotional Processing

Dal capitolo 8:

article

Now Playing

8.13 : Physiology of Emotion

Motivation and Emotion

525 Visualizzazioni

article

8.1 : Introduction to Motivation and Emotion

Motivation and Emotion

303 Visualizzazioni

article

8.2 : Motivational Cycle

Motivation and Emotion

473 Visualizzazioni

article

8.3 : Primary Motives: Hunger and Thirst

Motivation and Emotion

149 Visualizzazioni

article

8.4 : Primary Motives: Sleep, Sex, and Pain Avoidance

Motivation and Emotion

420 Visualizzazioni

article

8.5 : Secondary Motives: Power Motivation and Achievement Motivation

Motivation and Emotion

112 Visualizzazioni

article

8.6 : Secondary Motives: Affiliation Motivation and Aggression Motivation

Motivation and Emotion

286 Visualizzazioni

article

8.7 : Instinct Theory

Motivation and Emotion

211 Visualizzazioni

article

8.8 : Drive-Reduction Theory: Push Theory of Motivation

Motivation and Emotion

245 Visualizzazioni

article

8.9 : Incentive Theory: Pull Theory of Motivation

Motivation and Emotion

356 Visualizzazioni

article

8.10 : Optimal Arousal Theory

Motivation and Emotion

121 Visualizzazioni

article

8.11 : Maslow's Need Hierarchy Theory

Motivation and Emotion

191 Visualizzazioni

article

8.12 : Ryan and Deci's Self-Determination Theory

Motivation and Emotion

10.4K Visualizzazioni

article

8.14 : Emotional Expression

Motivation and Emotion

151 Visualizzazioni

article

8.15 : Labeling Emotion

Motivation and Emotion

94 Visualizzazioni

See More

JoVE Logo

Riservatezza

Condizioni di utilizzo

Politiche

Ricerca

Didattica

CHI SIAMO

Copyright © 2025 MyJoVE Corporation. Tutti i diritti riservati