Emergence of Emotions and Self-Regulation (Essay Sample)

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ENG 111P-026
Emergence of Emotions and Self-Regulation
We consciously experience emotions. It is an effective side of our conscious level. All feelings have roots in sensory stimulations, and they are associated with behavioural and physiological alterations in our body. Therefore, emotions are reaction patterns that are complex in nature. Three components of emotions are the behavioral, experiential, and physiological components. The experiential component is also called the subjective experience. Our personal experience of emotions like anger, sadness, and joy varies from various dimensions and is purely subjective. We experience mixed forms and rarely in pure ways. Sometimes we feel stomach lurches and palpitations in our hearts accompanied by fear. These specific emotions result in vibrant reactions of physiological nature. For instance, some responses to physiological life can be palms sweating continuously during anxiety or elevated heartbeat. The sympathetic nervous system regulates such emotions. This pertains to autonomic nervous system. Behavioral component is concerned with feelings that are expressed. We interpret the feelings of others around us after considerable observation of them due to our emotional intelligence. Most expressions are universally recognized, like smile signals happiness while a frown dictates sadness.
There are three processes in the generation of emotions. Firstly, it is mandatory to identify the emotional vitality of the stimulus of sensitive nature. Secondly, it is essential that emotions in affective states are produced. Thirdly, it is necessary to ensure that the affective state is regulated in a proper way. The reward and punishment mechanisms in the brain create an emotional valence required for stimulation of senses (Stimulus-reinforcement is associated). This is the first process. In the second process, these stimulus-reinforcements or affective valences give vent to emotional expressions. In the third process, three functional and specific areas of the prefrontal cortex regulate the flow of emotions (Tice 210).
Self-regulation refers to having control on our behavior, thoughts, and emotions in terms of our long term plans and goals. Emotional self-regulation is mainly the ability and power to control our impulses and disrupted emotions. In simple words, it is thinking before taking action and learning to cheer up after a failure or loss. It is also learning to pause between reactions and feelings. Value engagement is also an essential dimension in this regard. Our attitudes invite actions that run in contradiction to our fundamental values. It can be controlled through self-control and regulation of emotions.
Self-regulation of our emotions can be effectively managed by self-awareness. Asking ourselves how we feel about a particular situation helps to explore inner feelings and control the mind. Cognitive appraisal is another way to do it. It forces us to alter our thinking patterns and styles. It invites flexibility and acceptance and is part of number of psychotherapies like Anger Management, CBT, and DBT. Our thoughts can be defined through cognitive appraisal. For example, I am no more needed in this office because my boss dislikes or hates me, is replaced by opinion that the boss may be upset at this point in time or overstressed due to personal issues. And I can prove my point through hard work and honesty in future. If we are not regulating our emotions properly, there are chances that we may find it difficult to adapt to changing life situations. Our coping mechanisms deteriorate, we fall victim to distractions and resist change at all levels. Adaptability can be gained through evaluating things objectively. For example, stressful emotions can let us down, but a better adaptability approach can be talking to a best friend. Exercising self-compassion can be proper technique to avoid negative emotions through self-affirmation, deep breathing, self-care, and compassionate meditation.
There are three types of temperaments among children. These a