Final answer:
The James-Lange theory posits that emotions are the result of physiological responses to stimuli, such as increased heart rate and respiration when faced with a threat, which then leads to emotional experience.
Step-by-step explanation:
The James-Lange theory of emotion is a significant concept within psychology that explains emotions from a physiological standpoint. It asserts that emotions arise as a function of physiological arousal. For example, if you encounter a venomous snake, your sympathetic nervous system would trigger your heart to race and increase your respiration rate. According to the theory, the sensation of fear would be the result of these physiological changes rather than the cause.
This theory can generate falsifiable hypotheses that have been tested. Research involving individuals with spinal cord injuries, who may have diminished awareness of physiological arousal, indicates that while their emotional experiences may be less intense, they still experience emotions. This supports the notion that physiological responses contribute to, but are not solely responsible for, emotional experiences.
The James-Lange theory is often contrasted with the Cannon-Bard theory and the Schachter-Singer two-factor theory, which have different views on how emotions are formed and experienced. Nonetheless, the James-Lange theory remains influential for its emphasis on the role of bodily changes in emotional experiences.