Psyhophysiological theories of emotion mechanism

Abstract

the modern neurophysiological studies of emotions. The article analyzes scientific theories that consider emotions as a function of the brain. Different scientific views on the psychophysiology of emotions is presented in the article, starting with the earlier ideas of James-Lange and concluding with the modern research based on the latest technologies. We emphasized the contribution of the scientific and theoretical approaches of Charles Darwin, who was the pioneer in description the unity of the emotions mechanisms in humans and animals. It was a foundation for the following evolutionary approach in the study of emotions. The structural representation of the emotional brain circle suggested by Papec is important approach in the psychophysiology of emotions nowadays. Simonov underlined the connection of emotions and needs in his information theory of emotions. The appearance and development of the cognitive approach to understanding emotions, as well as the differentiation of the concepts of implicit and explicit emotions are considered. The article is completed with description of the modern studies by using functional magnetic resonance imaging and a positron emission tomograph, which allowed us to look deeper into the brain while performing emotional tasks. This literature review highlights the main trends in the study of emotions and the possibilities for the development of future research.
Key words: emotion, psychophysiology, brain, research EEG, limbic subject.