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Psychology
Key terms
James–Lange theory of emotion

GCSE Psychology · key term

James–Lange theory of emotion

Definition

The theory that an emotional stimulus first causes physiological arousal, and experiencing these bodily changes produces the emotion.

Used by AQA

How each exam board covers it

AQA GCSE Psychology · 8182

Paper 2

The James–Lange theory of emotion explains how such changes could produce an emotional experience.
Revise: Nervous System Structure and Function

AQA Psychology past papers

Related key terms

Autonomic nervous system
Central nervous system
Fight or flight response
Nervous system
Parasympathetic nervous system

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James–Lange theory of emotion — AQA GCSE Psychology Definition

Peripheral nervous system

Physiological arousal

Somatic nervous system

Sympathetic nervous system