Final answer:
It is false that "Self-conscious" emotions only arise from self-awareness. Emotions, while linked to conscious awareness, also depend on the maintenance of homeostasis in the brain and the physiological responses to stimuli as explained by Damasio and the James-Lange theory.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is false to say that "Self-conscious" emotions are so named because they rely upon the development of self-awareness. While self-awareness does contribute to emotions, not all emotions that we experience are self-conscious or directly related to our self-awareness. According to Damasio (1994), emotions play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis in the brain, predominantly via neurotransmitters. This process is mostly unconscious but is linked to conscious awareness when it motivates behavior that promotes survival.
Further, the James-Lange theory suggests that our emotions are a result of physiological responses to stimuli. In cases where individuals have sustained injuries to their spinal columns, impairing their ability to sense physiological changes, they still experience emotions, although perhaps with less intensity. This suggests that while body awareness contributes to emotional intensity, it is not solely responsible for the creation of emotions.
In conclusion, emotions are deeply tied to physiological responses and conscious thoughts, influencing decision-making and behavior necessary for our survival. Skills such as metacognition can be applied to reflect on and manage strong emotional responses.