Document Type

Book Chapter

Publication Date

4-25-2025

Keywords

amygdala, basic emotions, complex emotions, emotion, emotional development, social interactions

Disciplines

Developmental Psychology

Abstract

Charles Darwin theorized that emotions were universally experienced. This idea acknowledged that emotions can be experienced similarly and communicated via many different cultures and backgrounds. Evidence supports the concept that emotions are also biologically based therefore, they must in some sense be universal (Ortony, 1990). Emotions are recognized universally in the bases of social and biological interactions. Darwin also recognized emotions as a trait that is continuously evolving. The basic emotions become more complex and build upon each other via experiences and exposure. In the 1960’s Paul Ekman was able to combine several studies and identify six basic human emotions. These six basic emotions have been recognized by most psychologists. The six basic emotions are anger, disgust, fear, happiness, sadness, and surprise. All these factors mature and enhance with age and development.

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