© Shutterstock

What are emotions? -

An emotion is a complex psychological state triggered by stimuli. It is how an individual reacts to significant or impactful situations.

© Shutterstock

Emotions vs. feelings vs. moods -

The words are used interchangeably, but psychologists say they are different things. Emotions are short-lived and intense, while moods are long-lasting and usually milder. And feelings are the results of specific emotions.

© Shutterstock

Theory of the six basic emotions -

During the '70s, psychologist Paul Ekman identified six basic emotions that he suggested were universally experienced in all human cultures.

© Shutterstock

Basic emotions -

The emotions he identified were: happiness, sadness, disgust, fear, surprise, and anger.

© Shutterstock

An extended list -

Ekman later expanded his list of basic emotions to include such things as pride, shame, embarrassment, and excitement.

© Shutterstock

Combining emotions -

Psychologist Robert Plutchik developed a "wheel of emotions," where emotions can be combined to form different feelings, like colors can be mixed to create other shades.

© Shutterstock

Plutchik's theory -

According to this theory, the more basic emotions act like building blocks.

© Shutterstock

The mix of emotions -

More complex, sometimes mixed emotions, are blends of the more basic ones. For example, basic emotions such as joy and trust can be combined to create love.

© Shutterstock

The six basic emotions -

Click on to take a closer look at some of the basic types of emotions and their impact on human behavior.

© Shutterstock

Happiness -

Happiness tends to be the emotion that people strive for the most. It's often defined as a pleasant emotional state that is characterized by feelings of contentment, joy, gratification, satisfaction, and well-being.

© Shutterstock

Happiness -

Happiness has been linked to a variety of outcomes, including increased longevity and marital satisfaction.

© Shutterstock

Happiness -

Happiness plays a critical societal role, as it signals friendliness and assures that one is not a threat. It motivates one to do good for themselves and the survival of others.

© Shutterstock

Sadness -

Sadness can be defined as a temporary emotional state characterized by feelings of disinterest, hopelessness, grief, disappointment, and low mood.

© Shutterstock

Sadness -

Although many believe sadness is a negative emotion, it plays a vital role in signaling one’s need for help or comfort.

© Shutterstock

Sadness -

All people can experience this emotion from time to time. However, persistent sadness can be a sign of a mood disorder, which requires assessment by a mental health professional.

© Shutterstock

Fear -

Fear is triggered by a real or imagined threat or danger. Although it's considered a negative emotion, it serves a vital role by activating our fight-or-flight response and keeping us safe.

© Shutterstock

Fear -

The facial expression of fear can be confused with surprise. The muscles become tense, while the heart rate and respiration increase. One's mind also becomes more alert, priming the body to either run, stand still, or fight.

© Shutterstock

Fear -

Persistent, intense fear caused by anticipated threats or even our thoughts about potential dangers can be a sign of anxiety disorder. This can be problematic if it interferes with your daily life.

© Shutterstock

Disgust -

Disgust is an emotion triggered by something unpleasant we see, smell, or taste. The disgust response can be triggered by such things as blood, infection, poor hygiene, rot, and death.

© Shutterstock

Disgust -

The most easily recognizable sign of disgust is the wrinkling of the nose. Vomiting and retching are also common physical responses.

© Shutterstock

Disgust -

People can also experience moral disgust when they see that others do something they consider immoral, distasteful, or evil.

© Shutterstock

Anger -

Anger is a very powerful emotion that is characterized by feelings of agitation, hostility, antagonism towards other people, and frustration.

© Shutterstock

Anger -

It can be triggered due to stress, unmet needs, financial problems, and family issues. It may also be a part of our body’s fight-or-flight response.

© Shutterstock

Anger -

Anger can be helpful when it is expressed constructively. However, if it's excessive or expressed in unhealthy ways, it can easily result in harmful behavior towards oneself and others.

© Shutterstock

Surprise -

Surprise is a very brief emotion and is characterized by a physiological reaction to something unexpected.

© Shutterstock

Surprise -

It can be positive, neutral, or negative, or it can also trigger a fight-or-flight response.

© Shutterstock

Surprise -

Depending on the trigger, this emotion quickly gives way to anger, happiness, fear, or disgust.

© Shutterstock

What are the benefits of understanding emotions? -

Emotions are important because they have helped humans evolve and survive. Plus, they play a critical role in how we behave. However, they can be destructive if they don’t fit the situation or if they cause a reaction that we don't understand.

© Shutterstock

Cultivating emotional intelligence -

Therefore, it’s critical for us to understand our emotions and learn how to manage them. 

Sources: (Verywell Mind) (Calmerry)

See also: Are you emotionally intelligent? Here's how to tell

© Shutterstock