8.18 : Cognitive Theories: Schachter-Singer Theory of Emotion

Stanley Schachter and Jerome Singer proposed the two-factor theory of emotion, which emphasizes the interplay between physiological arousal and cognitive labeling in forming emotional experiences. This theory suggests that emotions are not simply a result of physiological responses but rather a combination of these responses and the individual's cognitive interpretation of them.

Physiological Arousal and Cognitive Labeling

According to this theory, when an individual experiences physiological arousal, such as an increased heart rate or sweating, they actively seek external cues to identify the cause and label it as a specific emotion. For example, after receiving a compliment, an individual might interpret the accompanying arousal as "happiness." Conversely, if someone experiences physiological changes after wrongdoing, like cheating on an exam, they might label the emotion as "guilt." This labeling process implies that emotions are not inherent to the physiological state but depend on how the arousal is interpreted based on situational factors.

Experimental Evidence

Schachter and Singer tested their theory by administering epinephrine, a drug that induces physiological arousal, to participants. These participants were then placed in the presence of another individual displaying either euphoric or angry behavior. The study found that the participants' emotional experience depended significantly on the behavior of the person they observed. Participants felt happy around a euphoric individual and angry around an angry one. Notably, this misattribution of emotional states occurred only when participants were unaware of the drug's effects. Those who knew the cause of their arousal correctly attributed it to the injection rather than the surrounding context, preventing an incorrect emotional label.

Implications of the Theory

The experiment highlights that while physiological arousal is a core component of strong emotions, the cognitive interpretation of this arousal—based on situational cues—ultimately determines the emotional experience. This perspective provides insights into how emotions can be shaped, altered, or misinterpreted based on contextual factors.