Smart Psychology

Basic Emotions

One question that is asked repeatedly is “what are the basic emotions.” There have been dozens of answers to this, none of which have been completely satisfying. This is, no doubt, due to the fact that emotional response is complex to begin with, and is made even more complex by the fact that we add our thoughts and interpretations to them as well as just “experiencing” them as they are. I suggest that we can organize emotions into seven families:

The Surprise Family

surprise, startle, astonishment
bewilderment, confusion, shock

fear, threat, terror
anxiety
doubt, caution, suspicion

anger, rage, frustration
hatred, hostility
envy, jealousy
disgust, contempt, annoyance, indignation

sadness, sorrow, depression
anguish, despair
grief, loneliness
shame, embarrassment, humiliation
guilt, remorse, regret

eagerness, anticipation, excitement, confidence
hopefulness
curiosity, interest

happiness, elation, joy, gladness
contentment, satisfaction
self-satisfaction, pride
love, affection, compassion
amusement, humor, laughter

boredom, ennui, complacency

ttp://webspace.ship.edu/cgboer/emotions.html

posted by Smart Psychology @ 3:10 PM