Q1

Q: The book discusses different perspective on emotions.  Which perspective - of what combination of several - makes the most sense to you?  Why?  Explain how the perspective you favor gives you insight into emotions that you don't get from other perspectives.

A:  The perspective that makes the most sense to me is the cognitive labeling view of emotions, however, I am extremely guilty of the perceptual view of emotions. The reason for why I do not consistently cognitively label my emotions is because it really requires you to sit down and really think about what happened and think whether or not your immediate response to the external event is correct. This perspective is my desired perspective because it challenges me to think about the "is this really what I think it is or is there another reason?"; essentially to put myself in another shoes. The textbook gave a great example with the child whom was startled. Psychologically the child would have had permanent fear of dogs if she was not explained as to why the dog jumped at her. By explaining to her that the dog was overjoyed to see her and have a new friend and someone to play with, the dog became her new best friend and the fear was "erased". The main difference is just taking a step back to analyze what has happened rather than go to the immediate emotion which you feel that could change your attitude on the situation.