What does Cognitive Appraisal Theory emphasize?

• A. Emotions are directly triggered by events.
• B. Emotions are not directly triggered by events, but by subjective interpretation (appraisal) of those events.
• C. Emotions are random.
• D. Emotions are purely physiological.

Answer: (B)

Emotions come from how we interpret what happens. Cognitive Appraisal Theory says the event itself doesn’t determine the feeling—we arrive at the emotion through our subjective appraisal of the situation, considering its significance for our goals, beliefs, and well-being. This involves stages like primary appraisal (Is this a threat, a challenge, or a loss?) and secondary appraisal (Do I have the resources to cope?), and it explains why the same event can spark different emotions in different people. For example, a delay might be felt as frustrating by someone who sees it as disrespectful, or as manageable when they appraise it as a harmless inconvenience. This emphasis on interpretation sets it apart from views that claim emotions are automatic reactions to events or are solely physiological.