The Wheel of Emotions

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The Wheel of Emotions What is it and how does it

work?
There is no doubt that everyday life is like the wheel of emotions, we experience them
daily, but we do not always understand them.
In recent years, scientists seem to have left behind the cult of intellectual intelligence , to
study emotions with special interest.
And previously, the ability to solve problems was attributed solely to intellectual
intelligence and the famous IQ or Intellectual Quotient .

But now, thanks to various studies, we know that emotional management is a key piece,
which intervenes not only in knowledge, but in its direct application.
Before starting with the guide to the wheel of emotions, I would like to ask you a simple
question: HOW DO YOU FEEL?... analyze it, what is your answer?
How do the majority answer this simple question? generally with very brief answers, such
as: “good” , “tired” , “ better ”, “leave me” , “nothing” .

Despite being a very simple question, the most common answers reflect a great lack of
knowledge of one's own emotions or an evasion of them.
The question refers to a recent emotional state, not to what I do, or what I have, or where I
am, or what I want them to do for me...
How much do you tend to “self-apply” these responses (I'm fine , tired , I don't know what I
have, etc.) , evading what you feel or leaving your interlocutor with more doubts?
If this is your case, or you simply want to develop your emotional awareness more, good
time, here you will learn a powerful tool to identify and understand your emotions.

What is the wheel of emotions?


The wheel of emotions is a graphic resource that is used to identify the different types of
emotions and understand how they relate to each other.
In 1980, its creator Robert Plutchik used it to explain the “Psychoevolutionary Theory of
Emotion” using a conical and a circular model.
The circular or 2nd dimension model is the best known (hence it has become popular as a
“wheel”), and is used to understand basic emotions and their possible combinations.
Using the conical or 3rd-dimensional view, the intensity of basic emotions can be measured
and analyzed with respect to their composite derivatives.
How does the wheel of emotions work?

The wheel of emotions works based on a schematized relationship between the different
emotions, which it describes following 3 criteria:

1. Typology: grouping them into basic and compound emotions.


2. Antagonism: according to the degree of similarity or discrepancy between them.
3. Intensity: according to the level of excitement with which they can be
experienced.

Plutchik took the properties of colors as an analogy to study and explain the way in which
emotions combine with each other.
As in primary colors , the mixture of basic emotions gives rise to compound emotions , which
in turn have different tones or nuances.
The conception of this analogy with colors is essential to understand how to use the wheel
of emotions in a practical way.

1. Typology

To understand how it works, this criterion is the starting point (and the easiest to
understand), since it is based on a very simple conceptualization.
As we already mentioned, Plutchik classified emotions into 2 large groups: basic and
compound emotions, or primary and secondary .
The 8 basic emotions are: Joy , Sadness , Fear , Anger , Trust , Disgust , Surprise and
Anticipation , and the compound emotions would be all the others.
We can locate these basic emotions in the circumference subsequent to the central circle
(around the “core”) of the wheel.
2. Antagonism
Plutchik states that the 8 Basic Emotions (whose combination gives rise to all the others),
can be grouped into 4 pairs of opposite poles:

1. Joy is antagonistic to Sadness.


2. Fear is antagonistic to Anger.
3. Trust is antagonistic to Disgust.
4. Surprise is antagonistic to Anticipation.

Between these opposite emotions there are several stages or “intermediate emotions” that
gradually separate them, and they resemble each other to a greater or lesser extent,
according to their degree of separation.
The relationship of similarity or antagonism between emotions is located in the area of
intersection between the diametrically opposed “petals” and the limits of each
circumference.
3. Intensity
In this criterion, the level of excitement of the emotions and their transitions are represented
by the gradualness of the colors in each “petal” .
In such a way that the closer an emotion is to the core, its color will be darker (intense
emotions) and the further away it is, its color will be paler (contained emotions).
For example: in the center of the wheel, the dark blue that represents Affliction changes to
a faint blue indicating that Sadness is decreasing in intensity compared to its predecessor.

What is the wheel of emotions for?


Its usefulness as a resource for emotional analysis is extremely interesting and valuable,
since it allows us to observe the course of emotions visually.
Revealing the initial state of each emotion (how they originate), their trajectory
(combination or intensity), until their ultimate function or objective.
That is, the wheel of emotions helps us:
1. Identify emotions.
2. Detect the events that trigger emotions.
3. Express and use emotions assertively.
4. Find alternative behaviors to satisfy them.
5. Understand and empathize with the emotions of others.
When we understand what we feel and why we feel it, we are able to better manage our
impulses and give meaning to what happens to us.
In the end, a better emotional understanding translates into greater clarity when solving
problems and the way we react to them.

Specifically, the practical application of the wheel of emotions usually occurs in 3 large
areas of psychology:

 Educational Psychology, as learning content and pedagogical tool.


 Psychotherapy, as a resource for self-knowledge or for clinical guidance
purposes.
 Labor Psychology, for personnel training and analysis of the organizational
climate.

Emotional Dyads

Each possible combination of the 8 basic emotions results in 24 compound emotions,


which Plutchik classified into 3 groups of dyads.
Each group represents the degrees of separation with the basic emotions, such that the
possibility of experiencing emotions of dyad 1, 2, and 3 decreases as their separation
increases.
Function of emotions according to Plutchik

For Plutchik, each emotion has “a reason for being” , very specific functions that distinguish
them and allow the survival of the individual in their environment.
According to their sequential model, emotions are activated upon exposure to specific
stimuli, which in turn triggers so-called survival behaviors (Krohn, 2007).
That is, emotions are neither good nor bad, but necessary. And they are activated
instinctively and unconsciously to generate behaviors that ensure our well-being.
For Plutchik, each emotion (and its combinations) can generate various survival behaviors:

1. DEFENSE, protection and escape » generated by Fear and Terror.


2. DESTRUCTION, of an obstacle » generated by Anger and Rage.
3. INCORPORATION, food intake » generated by Confianza.
4. REJECTION, in response to harmful material » generated by Asco.
5. REPRODUCTION, genetic exchange » generated by Alegría y Pleasure.
6. REINTEGRATION, as a response to the loss » generated by Sadness and Pain.
7. EXPLORATION, of the environment » generated by Curiosity and Play.
8. GUIDANCE, as a response to the unknown » generated by Surprise.
Our brain is emotional, it reacts emotionally to stimuli, releasing substances that help us
behave in accordance with what we experience.
If the stimulus persists, the emotional reaction can be maintained, diminished, eliminated,
or combined with another emotion in order to fulfill its survival function.
The foundation of the wheel of emotions
The Psychoevolutionary Theory of Emotions (Plutchik, 1980) is the theoretical basis of this
tool , and it is one of the most influential theories in terms of emotion classification .
This theory maintains that emotions evolve and adapt their form of expression in order to
preserve the survival and reproduction of individuals.
It has 10 postulates (Ch. Minds, 2016) , which state that emotions:

1. They exist as a phenomenon in every animal and stage of development.


2. They evolve expressing themselves in different ways in each species.
3. They adapt to ensure the survival of organisms in their environment.
4. They retain common patterns or traits in all species (despite their diverse forms
of expression).
5. They are reduced in number in terms of their initial quality or basic state.
6. They combine, giving rise to a wide range of compound or derived emotions.
7. They are antagonistic or can be conceptualized in pairs of opposite poles.
8. They are hypothetical so their experience and characteristics can only be
deduced.
9. They resemble each other, which implies different degrees of similarity between
them.
10.They intensify and can be experienced at various levels of excitement or
irritability.

The Author of the Wheel of Emotions


Robert Plutchik (1927 – 2006) was a pioneer in the study of emotions; his legacy to the field of
emotional analysis is considered one of the most important.
He exerted a powerful influence on psychology, promoting the importance of understanding
emotions, work that had repercussions on other areas, such as biology and psychiatry.
He graduated with a Doctor of Psychology (PhD) from Columbia University, and served as a
professor at Albert Einstein and South Florida Universities.
His greatest contribution was the “Psychoevolutionary Theory of Emotions” that explains the
relationship between emotions and their functioning.
In 1980 he became an undisputed authority in his field, proposing “The Wheel of Emotions” as a
definitive resource to explain his theory.
Writer, author and co-author of 7 books and more than 200 articles, where in addition to
emotions, he addressed topics such as violence, suicide and psychotherapy.

Among his most important books and publications are:


 Emotion: A Psychoevolutionary Synthesis. (1980)
 Foundations of Experimental Research. (1983)
 Circumplex Models of Personality and Emotions. (1996)
 Emotions in the Practice of Psychotherapy. (2001)
 Emotions and Life: Perspectives from Psychology. (2002)
 The Measurement of Emotions. (2013)

Conclusions

If we cannot recognize our own emotions, we will not be able to communicate them assertively
either. We call this skill emotion recognition .
Therefore, seen from an emotional point of view, life can be very rich, nutritious and varied. We
have a whole “menu” at our disposal!
Plutchik left us 8 basic emotions: Joy , Sadness , Fear , Anger , Trust , Disgust , Surprise and
Anticipation , which we should learn to recognize and use.
Most animals can experience basic emotions, however, humans can generate many more
emotions: compound emotions.
What are the emotions you most often experience? How do you react to them ? , Do you know the
stimuli to which you react most intensely?…
If you spend some time getting to know yourself, you will surely find many ways to better channel
your emotions. Plus, it's a very fun process!

“THE WHEEL OF EMOTIONS BY ROBERT PLUTCHIK”


Emotions function as an impulse for human behavior to cause you to act or trigger a psychological and
physiological process. They are generally the way you react to resolve a certain situation, catalyze it, move
through it, or express how you feel.
Given its complexity, so vast is the universe of human emotions, the North American psychologist Robert
Plutchik developed a theory in which he maintains that, like animals, people have been evolving their
emotional map in order to adapt to the environment in which he lives.
For Plutchik, emotions can be grouped into eight primary categories, which have specific functions to help
survival: fear, surprise, sadness, disgust, anger, hope, joy and acceptance.
The other emotions would be, according to him, combinations of the eight mentioned, and that, interacting,
would allow for expanding a map of each person's experiences.
A striking aspect is that he presented them by degree of intensity.
Thus, fear is less intense than fear, or approval compared to trust. “The more intense an emotion is, the more
open the individual will be to acting in accordance with it.”
DECIPHERING PLUTCHIK'S WHEEL OF EMOTIONS
Primary Emotions: The eight sectors are designed to indicate that there are eight dimensions of primary
emotion. They are anger, anticipation, joy, confidence, fear, surprise, sadness and disgust.
INTENSITY: The vertical dimension of the cone represents intensity – emotions intensify as they move
from the outside toward the center of the wheel. For example, a feeling of boredom can intensify and turn
into aversion if not regulated. This is an important rule about emotions to keep in mind in relationships: if
left unchecked, emotions can escalate. Herein lies the wisdom of improving your emotional vocabulary: it is
the cornerstone of effective navigation of emotions.
RELATIONSHIPS: Each sector of the circle contains an opposite emotion. The opposite of sadness is joy,
and the opposite of trust is disgust. Can you find the opposite of anticipation? …
That makes a lot of sense, right?
Emotions without color represent an emotion that is a mixture of the 2 primary emotions. For example,
anticipation and joy combine to be optimism. Joy and trust combine to be love. Emotions are often complex,
and being able to recognize when a sensation is actually a combination of two or more distinct feelings is an
extremely useful skill.
Emotion: Anger
Opposite emotion: Fear
Degree of intensity: Anger → Anger → Fury (the highest intensity)
Primary dyads:
Anger + Dislike (rejection) → Contempt
Anger + Anticipation → Treachery (aggressiveness)
Secondary dyads:
Anger + Sadness → Remorse
Anger + Joy → Optimism
Tertiary dyads:
Anger + Surprise → Disappointment
Anger + Confidence → Submission
The usefulness of this tool
To classify this theory of emotions in a simple way: it facilitates the understanding of an extremely complex
topic.
To be able to identify them more precisely: in the midst of an emotional whirlpool it is often not possible to
be clear about which one dominates you, and here you will find help or guidance.
To know the opposite that this postulate proposes: it proposes a path to get out of the emotion that is
dominating you, if you choose to get out of that state.
To know the direct and indirect interactions, to a third degree, that each one can have: emotions are
interrelated, they do not appear alone and several can coexist in the same emotional state, at different levels
of intensity.

The wheel of emotions: what it is and how to use it


[+PDF]
Dec 24, 2017 by Hokuma Karimova, MA
Scientifically reviewed by Tiffany Sauber Millacci, Ph.D.
Can you guess how many emotions a human being can
experience?

A study by The Greater Good Science Center suggests that there are at least 27 different
emotions (Cowen & Keltner, 2017). And that doesn't even include combinations of emotions.

With so many emotions, how do you navigate the turbulent waters of feelings without getting
lost?

The answer: with a wheel of emotions.

Through years of studying emotions, American psychologist Dr. Robert Plutchik proposed that
there are eight primary emotions that serve as the basis for all others: joy, sadness, acceptance,
disgust, fear, anger, surprise and anticipation. (Polish, 2016)

So while it is difficult to understand the 34,000 different emotions, we can learn to identify the
primary emotions and act accordingly. It is especially useful for times of intense feelings and
when the mind cannot remain objective as it operates from an impulsive "fight or flight"
response. (Watkins, 2014)

Before you read on, we thought you might like to download our three emotional intelligence
exercises for free . These science - based exercises will not only improve your ability to
understand and work with your emotions, but they will also give you the tools to foster the
emotional intelligence of your clients, students, or employees.

This article contains:


 What is Plutchik's wheel of emotions?
 How to use Plutchik's wheel of emotions
 2 Emotion Wheel Worksheets
 What is the difference between Plutchik's wheel of emotions and Geneva's wheel of
emotions?
 How to Use an Emotion Wheel in Counseling with Quenza
 Controlling emotions through vertical development
 A fun test using Plutchik's Emotion Wheel: Who Are You Really According to the
Emotion Wheel?
 A message to take home
 References

What is Plutchik's wheel of emotions?


Let's take a look at each of these emotions. But first, how about a clear idea of what we mean
when we use the term "emotion"?
In previous studies, emotion researchers viewed emotions as episodes influenced by stimuli.
More specifically,

“Emotion is defined as an episode of synchronized and interrelated changes in the state of all or
most of the five organismic subsystems in response to the evaluation of an external or internal
stimulus event as relevant to the organism's main concerns” (Emotion Researcher, 2015).
Below is a table from the International Handbook of Emotions in Education. It shows the
relationship between these various factors and subsystems, as well as their supposed functions
(Pekrun & Linnenbrink-Garica, 2014). There are also plenty of books on emotional intelligence .

Emotions influence our actions in five main ways.

1. Emotional component

This is where an individual simply experiences the feelings. It is about monitoring the internal
universe and recognizing what is being experienced at that moment.

2. Action Trend Component

Once the emotion is identified, the body goes into action. Emotions grant certain actions instead
of others, meaning that while some are out of our control (and luckily), like removing our hand
from a hot iron, others are within our control, facing the fear of continuing a speech or a
presentation. .

3. Evaluation component

Through the cognitive analysis of emotion, the individual can capture the situations, actions,
environments or people that cause the emotion. This helps the individual track how these stimuli
affect their well-being. It is also invaluable in helping to communicate the state of our internal
world to others.

4. Engine component

This is the communicative function of how we express what we are experiencing (facial
expressions, hand gestures, body movements, etc.). Therefore, it is extremely important at the
inter-individual level as well as at the individual level.
5. Physiological Component

This component is compatible with all the others and is the chemical reaction that our body
experiences. For example, the rush of blood to the hands occurs when one experiences the
emotion of anger.

Although the components of the emotions we feel are present in all individuals, the intensity and
expression of these emotions differ from one person to another. There are also social factors
such as gender, culture and race, which influence why people may feel different emotions
despite similar situations.

For example, hearing words like: "I'm scared", "I feel nervous", "I don't want to be here" or "I
just don't have enough time to prepare for the final", are part of the different components of an
emotion.

“The first expression (I'm afraid) describes a subjective feeling of fear. The second example (I
feel nervous) refers to the physiological component of an emotion. The third example (I don't
want to be here) indicates a tendency toward avoidance action, which may or may not be
carried out. The fourth example describes several appraisals of the situation, including goal
frustration (I am not prepared) and powerlessness (I do not have enough time). Observable
motor activities are also associated with emotions. For example, facial expression, such as
smiling or frowning, body postures, such as opening the arms or raising the fists, and voice
changes, such as raised pitch, can be observed in emotional situations.”
(Pekrun & Linnenbrink-Garica 2, 2014)

The wheel of emotions

Now that the complex system of emotions and all its components are a little clearer, we can dive
into the work of Plutchik and his wheel. (Pico, 2016)

The eight main emotions he identified, which are the basis of all the others, are grouped into
opposite poles:

 happiness and sadness


 acceptance and disgust
 fear and anger
 surprise and anticipation

The foundation of his theory of emotions is derived from the following ten postulates:
(Changing Minds, 2016)
The Wheel of Emotions by Dr.
Robert Plutchik.

 Animals and humans


The midbrain (or limbic system) of a human is similar to that of other mammals.
Animals and humans experience the same basic emotions.
 Evolutionary history
Emotions arose as part of the evolutionary process, long before apes or humans existed.
 Survival issues
The most influential role of emotions is to help us survive.
 Prototype patterns
These are the identifiable common patterns and elements that make up each emotion.
 Basic emotions
The most basic emotions are the primary ones: trust, fear, surprise, sadness, disgust,
anger, anticipation and joy.
 Combinations
The sum of these various primary emotions will produce new ones such as: love = (joy +
trust), guilt = (joy + fear) and delight = (joy + surprise).
 Hypothetical constructions
Emotions are constructions, or ideas, that help describe a certain experience.
 Opposites
Like many things in nature, there is a duality with emotions, so each one has its opposite
pole:
– sadness is the opposite of joy
– trust is the opposite of disgust
– fear is the opposite of anger
– surprise is the opposite of anticipation
 Similarity
The degree of similarity determines which emotions are most related and which are the
opposite.
 Intensity
This degree of change in intensity, from very strong to not so strong, produces the
diverse amount of emotions that we can feel. Such as:
– trust goes from acceptance to admiration
– fear goes from shyness to terror
– surprise goes from uncertainty to astonishment
– sadness goes from pessimism to pain
– Disgust ranges from dislike to loathing
– anger goes from annoyance to fury
– anticipation goes from interest to vigilance
– joy goes from serenity to ecstasy

Elements of the Wheel

Looking at the wheel we can notice three main characteristics:

Colors

The eight emotions are arranged by colors that establish a set of similar emotions. Primary
emotions are located in the second circle. Emotions with softer colors are a mix of the two
primary emotions.

Layers

Moving to the center of the circle intensifies the emotion, so the colors also intensify. For
example, in the center of the wheel, the primary emotions change from: anger to rage;
anticipation of surveillance; joy to ecstasy; confidence to admiration; fear of terror; surprise to
amazement; sadness to pain; disgust to disgust. Moving to the outer layers, the colors become
less saturated and the intensity of the emotions decreases.

Relations

Opposite polar emotions are facing each other. The spaces between emotions demonstrate
combinations when primary emotions mix. We then see the emergence of emotions such as love,
submission, optimism, aggressiveness, contempt, remorse, disapproval, amazement and
submission.

How to use Plutchik's wheel of emotions


The beauty of this tool is in its ability to simplify complex concepts. Understanding is a crucial
step in resolving any dilemma. When the question asks about our emotions that we process on a
subconscious level, it can be difficult to first identify and verbalize our needs.

That's why the tool is so useful. It allows the user to visualize their emotions and understand
what combinations of emotions created this result.
Once we objectify and understand emotions, we can empathize with ourselves and channel our
focus in the direction of the emotions we really want to feel.
There are two ways to use the wheel, either as a two-dimensional circle or as a three-
dimensional ellipse. Using it as a two-dimensional circle allows the individual to immerse
themselves in the wheel of emotion. This helps them discover what primary emotions they are
feeling, as well as how the emotions combine to create secondary emotions such as awe,
remorse, aggression, optimism, etc.).

By using it as a three-dimensional shape, the individual can see the emotional intensity of
primary and secondary emotions. (Roeckelein, 2006)

According to Plutchik's Sequential Model, emotions are activated due to specific stimuli, which
trigger certain behavioral patterns. (Krohn, 2007)

He identified the following survival behaviors that drive our actions:

Protection : Withdrawal, withdrawal


(activated by fear and terror)

Destruction: Elimination of barriers to the satisfaction of needs


(activated by anger and rage)

Incorporation: Eat food


(activated by acceptance)

Rejection: waste response to harmful material


(activated by disgust)

Reproduction: Approach, contract, genetic exchanges


(activated by joy and pleasure)

Reintegration: Reaction to the loss of the nutritional product


(activated by sadness and grief)

Exploration: Investigate an environment


(activated by curiosity and play)

Guidance: Reaction to contact with an unknown object


(activated by surprise)
(Screenr, 2017)

This means that when our emotions are activated, they do so to provoke one of the survival
behaviors. Of course, all of this happens on a subconscious level.
2 Emotion Wheel Worksheets
To access deeper into the mind and get to the root cause of these inner emotions, here are
several worksheets to help the process:

 Clear and brief: emotions


It provides an instant view of emotions and the way they are triggered in the mind.
Describes the levels of development through which our emotions grow. And what it
means to be emotionally intelligent.
 See emotions
Sometimes it helps to see a visual explanation of a word or concept. If you would benefit
from the common facial expressions associated with each emotion, then this worksheet is
for you. Explore and identify feelings by matching their expressions.
 Bonus: How to Improve Emotional Intelligence in the Workplace .

What is the difference between Plutchik's wheel of emotions and


Geneva's wheel of emotions?
Plutchik's wheel is not the only tool available for understanding and interacting without
emotions. There are other emotion wheels that help us understand and detect our emotions, such
as the Geneva Emotion Wheel (GEW). (Affective Sciences, 2017)

While both wheels focus on emotions and their intensities, the GEW uses a different approach.
To start, there are no primary emotions, but rather a set of 20 emotions that are evaluated by two
sets of polar parameters (version 2.0 has 20 emotions, while the first model lists 16).
The two parameters are valence (describing a situation as unpleasant or pleasant) and
control/power (observing whether or not the individual has high or low control over the situation
and its outcomes).

Another big difference between the two is the intensity of the emotions. The GEW has reversed
its intensity, with stronger emotions represented by larger circles on the outer layers; These
decrease in size as they approach the center.

One of the biggest differences between these emotional intelligence tools is that the Geneva
Emotion Wheel also gives people the ability to select options for 'no emotions' or 'other
emotions'.
That's because “it gives respondents a lot of freedom to express themselves. [It is important] to
note that a pure free response format can be a disadvantage because there can be a large
variation in how and how well respondents express themselves in their own words (e.g. e.g.,
Gohm & Clore, 2000) and the resulting variability in measurements. between individuals and
situations can reduce the reliability of the measurement. (Sacharin, Schlegel and Scherer, 2012)

Another big difference is that the Plutchik wheel does not express emotions like pride and
shame, which the GEW does. Aside from that, both tools provide an excellent starting point for
detecting emotions.

How to Use an Emotion Wheel in Counseling with Quenza


If you are a counselor looking for ways to help your
clients strengthen their understanding of their emotions, consider inviting them to complete their
own emotion wheel.

For example, suppose you would like to better understand your client's baseline emotional state
on a typical day. In that case, you might ask them to complete an emotions wheel as part of a
standardized set of admissions materials.

Alternatively, perhaps if your client has a mood disorder or experiences rapid fluctuations in
emotions, you can invite them to complete emotion wheels as a form of reflection after
emotionally intense events throughout the day.

For a helpful tool that facilitates either approach, check out the Quenza digital e-therapy app.
The platform provides a simple way to help professionals design and share reflection activities,
quizzes, and more, all through a simple drag-and-drop builder.

Among the various elements you can include in your activities is a 'wheel', which can be labeled
with emotions according to one of the frameworks we have explored.
Upon completing their wheel activity, clients can provide ratings (for example, regarding the
intensity or frequency of that emotion) for each segment of the wheel. Counselors can then use
the final result, which looks like a spider diagram, to facilitate discussion and reflection.

This is just one of Quenza's useful tools that can be customized to help your clients understand
their emotions. If you would like to learn more about Quenza and its features, check out our case
study article dedicated to psychoeducation interventions or consider taking advantage of the
platform's 30-day risk-free trial .

Controlling emotions through vertical development


Human development goes through phases of self-awareness . Here is a great video that explains
in detail why understanding what we feel is so important.

As Dr. Watkins explained, most people remain trapped in the state of consciousness of a nine-
year-old child, due to the set of rules imposed by the educational system, society and the
business world. How strange is that?

When a crisis enters our lives (or another intense event), we begin to ask ourselves more
questions about the role we play in the world. We begin to pay attention to the emotions and
messages they send to themselves and others.

When people are ready to face their negative or positive emotions, the inability to verbalize
hinders this development process. When we are distressed, using these emotional tools helps us
establish a plan of action.

As a first step, people can examine their emotions, understand what events and stimuli trigger
certain emotions for them, and the outcomes that tend to follow. For example, before a dinner or
similar social event, a human being may feel "apprehensive" because they want to feel like they
belong to a particular group. By understanding and labeling this emotion, the person can be less
hard on themselves for feeling a little nervous.
Emotions influence our health, performance, well-being, motivation, sense of accomplishment
and decision-making skills. It is important to understand and manage them.
When people don't understand their current emotion, they may panic as their internal locus of
control leaves them disillusioned. This is natural, hence the importance of recognizing our
feelings. As a review, people with an internal locus of control believe that,

“events in one's life, whether good or bad, are caused by controllable factors such as one's
attitude, preparation, and effort” (Grinnell, 2016).
Wheels in Counseling

These tools are valuable to people in counseling sessions as a way to identify the exact emotion
(from a list of many) and understand how the emotion was created. Such responses can provide
clarity and solution orientation, rather than a fixation on the problems that caused the dilemma
or intense feelings.

Below is the table of the combinations that can be had when mixing primary emotions
(Anderson, 2017).

Once people identify what they feel and why they feel it, counselors can delve into the
subconscious and make sense of what works and what doesn't.

That's where the tool comes in. Help in the following four ways:

1. Simplify emotions

Walking around with a mind full of confusion and uncertainty can make anyone feel sad or
overwhelmed. This is especially true for clients and people who want to understand themselves
or a stressful situation, but don't know where to start. With an emotion wheel, the client can
navigate through the various emotions and pinpoint the specific ones they are experiencing.

2. Describe the personal sequential model


By examining primary emotions, one can begin to consider what triggers the stimuli, how the
emotion is expressed (its physical and mental aspects), and the actions it prompts one to take.

By drawing up his or her own picture of stimulus events, cognitive evaluation, subjective
reaction, behavioral reaction, and function, an individual can become more aware of his or her
habits and behaviors.

Keeping an emotions journal, where you write about what you felt throughout the day and what
caused it, is a great way to incorporate reflection with this tool.

3. Provides an opportunity to share

When someone shares their deep inner emotions and feelings with another, it creates an
environment of trust and openness.

By sharing, the client can open up and initiate the propulsion for change and self-improvement.
It also helps create a positive relationship between the client and the counselor or therapist.

4. Empower people

Being in tune with what you feel (and therefore do) can be empowering. Instead of trying to
repress, reject, or ignore emotions, people learn to express and share them constructively, as
well as analyze the role they play in one's life.

Awareness in this area can provide clients with the opportunity to align with the things they
want, the outcomes they care about, and the emotional states that help them work toward their
goals despite looming challenges. (Minter, 2014)

A fun test using Plutchik's Emotion Wheel: Who Are You Really
According to the Emotion Wheel?
Those who are curious to see what their emotions reveal about them and how it influences their
personality can take any of these emotional intelligence tests .

The knowledge that one leaves with, about oneself, gives clarity and understanding, which is
essential for development and growth. It expands one's cognition, which is crucial in our
judgment, problem solving, higher-level thinking, planning, imagination, perception and more.

In fact,

“The primary way cognitions and emotions are linked is through appraisals. When something
happens, we evaluate what it means to us, its importance to us: this is an emotional evaluation
or an evaluation that leads to an emotional reaction. These appraisals are thought to help us
make precise distinctions about our emotional experiences or determine the extent or intensity
of the emotion.”
(Ogelk, 2017).

The next time one experiences certain emotions (which is an energy in motion), the individual
has the ability to use all the information gathered and self-knowledge to find the path to the
results they desire.
Those who want to expand their knowledge of emotions can take a look at these additional
resources, including a video explaining why suppressing emotions is a bad idea.

Universe of Emotions App

This application allows users to navigate a universe of 2,000 different


emotions.

In the process, you may become familiar with other similar emotional states and even share your
journey with friends. You can examine this universe of emotions and see what planet you are
currently on. (Complete Coherence, 2017)

Additionally, it allows people to track their emotional process and start taking steps to improve
it. This increases a person's emotional intelligence and allows them to better understand
themselves and others.

Available in the app store .

Worksheets for kids

There are several tools that can help children understand their emotions. With the release of
Pixar's animated film, Inside Out, which focuses on the emotions we feel inside us, there are
many materials available to start these types of conversations with younger children.

These tools include worksheets such as board games, a memory journal, and ideas for children
to draw and share their feelings with parents, teachers, and other caregivers (Mehlomakulu,
2015). You'll find a lot of these tools in our article Is Emotional Intelligence Relevant for Kids?

An animated video about emotions

This video explains why trying to suppress or ignore emotions can create many more problems
than solutions. While it is true that there are more negative emotions (shame, fear, sadness,
anger, disgust) than positive ones (happiness, surprise/interest), both are vital for our survival.

That's because our real emotions help us get what we really want. And by listening to the
emotions we have been carrying but ignoring, we can release stagnant ones and make room for
new ones.
A message to take home
The main takeaways from the video above help summarize the usefulness and application of
Plutchik's Wheel of Emotions, as well as other similar tools.

These golden rules are:

 Learn to attend to your emotions


 Become curious and patient with your emotions.
 Talk about them and show your real emotions to others.
 Learn to accept having different emotions.
 Change your emotions with other emotions

With the wheel of emotions and these golden rules in hand, life can become more manageable.
Imagine a world where everyone had the language to identify an emotion and understand what
they felt. It would help communication in all fields.

Do you use the wheel of emotions in your practice or in your daily life? If so, we'd love to hear
from you in our comments section below.

For more information, check out the following five articles on emotional intelligence:

 The importance of emotional intelligence


 How to improve emotional intelligence through training
 Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Effectiveness + 69 Exercises
 Teaching Emotional Intelligence to Adolescents and Students
 Emotional intelligence skills and how to develop them

If you're looking to help your clients become more emotionally intelligent by sharing online
exercises and tools with them, the new Quenza app will help you do just that.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article. Don't forget to download our 3 Emotional Intelligence
Exercises for free .

REFERENCES

 Affective Sciences. (2017, September 27). The Geneva Wheel of Emotion – CISA –
UNIGE. Retrieved from http://www.affective-sciences.org/gew
 Anderson, J. (March 26, 2017). Dada and Composite Emotions. Retrieved from
https://gatehealing.com/dyad-compound-emotions/
 Change of minds. (2016). Plutchik's ten postulates. Retrieved from
http://changingminds.org/explanations/evolution/plutchnik_postulates.htm
 Complete consistency. (2017). Universe of Emotions . Retrieved from
http://www.complete-coherence.com/universeofemotions/
 Cowen, A.S. and Keltner, D. (2017). The self-report captures 27 distinct categories of
emotion linked by continuous gradients. Proceedings of the National Academy of
Sciences , 114(38), E7900-E7909.
 Emotion researcher. (2015, March). The component process model of emotion and the
power of coincidences | Emotion researcher. Retrieved from
http://emotionresearcher.com/the-component-process-model-of-emotion-and-the-power-
of-coincidences/
 Grinnell, R. (2016, June 17). Internal locus of control. Retrieved from
https://psychcentral.com/encyclopedia/internal-locus-of-control/'
 Krohn, M. (2007). Robert Plutchik's Psychoevolutionary Theory of Basic Emotions.
Retrieved from https://dragonscanbebeaten.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/robert-plutchiks-
psychoevolutionary-theory-of-basic-emotions-poster.pdf
 Mehlomakulu, C. (2015, July 18). Using "Inside Out" to explore emotions. Retrieved
from http://creativityintherapy.com/2015/07/using-inside-out-to-explore-emotions/
 Minter, A. (February 26, 2014). What is the Wheel of Feelings? Retrieved from
http://www.passionprovokers.com/blog/why-use-a-feeling-wheel
 Ogelk. (2017). Emotion Cognition Motivation. Retrieved from
http://www.ogelk.net/dersnot/tip/Emotion_cognition_motivation.pdf
 Pekrun, R. and Linnenbrink-García, L. (2014). International Manual of Emotions in
Education , Chapter 2: Concepts and Structures of Emotions.
 Pico, I. (March 23, 2016). The wheel of emotions, by Robert Plutchik | PsychoPeak.
Obtained from http://psicopico.com/es/la-rueda-las-emociones-robert-plutchik/
 Pollack, D. (2015, November 12). Plutchik's Wheel of Emotions Cheat Sheet. Retrieved
from https://www.cheatography.com/davidpol/cheat-sheets/plutchik-s-wheel-of-
emotions/pdf/
 Roeckelein, J. (2006). Elsevier Dictionary of Psychological Theories.
 Sacharin, V., Schlegel, K. and Scherer, K. (2012, August 13). Evaluation study of the
Geneva wheel of emotions. Retrieved from
http://www.affective-sciences.org/files/4514/6720/4016/Geneva_Emotion_Wheel_Rating
_Study_Report_2012_08_11_2.0.pdf
 Screen (2017). Plutchik's wheel of emotions: how does it work and how can it be applied?
– General description of the book chapter. u3083644. Retrieved from
https://www.screenr.com/ZVDN
 Watkins, A. (October 29, 2014). How controlling your emotional responses can improve
your performance at work. Retrieved from https://trainingmag.com/how-controlling-
your-emotional-responses-can-improve-your-performance-work
The wheel of emotions by R. Plutchik
Posted on September 19, 2012 by Lic. Margarita Rodríguez Suárez

"What really matters for success, happiness and a long life of achievement is emotional intelligence."
Daniel Goleman
The term “emotional intelligence,” which Daniel Goleman began to use, refers to the benefits of knowing and
identifying emotions while controlling and managing our expressions of them, the ability to self-motivate, have
empathy, and a certain ability to relate to other people's emotions. The objective? that of increasing our psycho-
physical well-being or being happier.
Emotions are mental states that arise accompanied by physiological changes. There have been several theories
about emotions. One of them is that of Robert Plutchik who recognizes the greatest number of primary emotions
(eight). Secondary emotions would be combinations of the primary ones.

Robert Plutchik's psycho-evolutionary theory of emotions


Robert Plutchik (1927-2006), physician and psychologist, was professor emeritus at Albert Einstein College of
Medicine and adjunct professor at the University of South Florida. He received his Ph.D. Columbia University.
He is the author or co-author of more than 260 articles, 45 chapters and eight books and has edited seven books.
His research interests include the study of emotions, the study of suicide and violence, and the study of the
psychotherapeutic process.
According to Robert Plutchik (1970-1980), animals, to survive in their environment, have developed different
behaviors, each of them produced by an emotion. These basic emotions are 8 and facilitate the individual's
adaptation to changes in their environment.
The 8 basic emotions that Plutchik describes are:
1. Happiness
2. Trust
3. Fear
4. Surprise
5. Sadness
6. Dislike
7. Anger
8. Anticipation
Each of these emotions has a specific purpose: protection (fear), destruction (anger), reproduction (joy),
reintegration (sadness), affiliation (trust), rejection (disgust), exploration (anticipation), and orientation
(surprise).
For example: the purpose of protection, in fear, is to prepare the body for the behavior of withdrawal and flight.
The functions of emotions is to prepare the animal to give an appropriate behavioral response to the situation.
According to Plutchik, in order to study an emotion we must study it as an OBJECTIVE behavioral response, and
not as subjective affective states.
Emotions are not bad or good, but they are all beneficial, because they allow animals a state of preparation to
react to specific situations. Therefore, emotions have an ADAPTIVE function.
Emotions for Plutchik (relying on Darwin's concepts) have an evolutionary history and serve to help organisms
in their survival problems with the environment.
Despite having different forms of expression in different species, there are certain common elements, patterns,
prototypes that can be identified. There are a small number of basic and primary emotions.
All other emotions are mixed or derived states, combinations of these 8 primary emotions.
On the “wheel of emotions” , each emotion has its opposite. It is impossible to feel opposite emotions at the
same time.
Emotions vary in their degree of intensity, that is what we see in the “petal” (from softer to more intense color).
1. JOY
Intensity: Serenity – Joy – Ecstasy
Yellow color
Keyword: Possession
Function: Playback. Hold and repeat
Definition: it is an affective feeling, of short duration, that causes a pleasant sensation. It is manifested by
optimism, triumph and increased energy
Coping: Helps have a stable mood. To recover the lost object.
LOVE (secondary emotion between joy and trust)
2. TRUST
Intensity: Acceptance- Trust- Admiration
Light green color
Keyword: Friend
Function: affiliation – mutual support
Definition: It is learning to live with our mistakes and those of others, with the past, and prevailing the positive
aspects over the painful ones.
Coping: Facilitates participation in groups. Having friends.
SUBMISSION (secondary emotion between trust and fear)
3. FEAR
Intensity: Apprehension- Fear- Terror (panic)
Color: dark green
Keyword: Danger
Function: Protection
Definition: Feeling of uneasiness caused by real or imagined danger.
Coping: Prepares the individual to attack or flee
AWESOME (CONSTERNATION) (Secondary emotion between fear and surprise)
4. SURPRISE
Intensity: Distraction – Surprise – Amazement
Sky blue color
Keyword: What is it?
Function: Guidance
Definition: Emotional alteration caused by something unforeseen or expected. Astonishment, bewilderment,
shock. It is transitory.
Coping: Facilitates attentional processes and exploratory behaviors. Gain time to orient yourself.
DISAPPROVAL (Secondary emotion between surprise and sadness)
5. SADNESS
Intensity: Isolation- Sadness- Regret (Depression)
Color blue
Keyword: Abandonment
Function: Reintegration
Definition: Natural or accidental state of affliction, self-pity, melancholy, discouragement, hopelessness,
loneliness, grief or mourning in the face of a loss.
Coping: Allows you to assimilate harmful events
REMOR (secondary emotion between sadness and disgust)
6. DISGUST
Intensity: Boredom – Disgust – Loathing (Disgust)
Color: Violet
Keyword: Poison
Function: Rejection (expulsion of poison)
Definition: it is the disgust produced by something that incites vomiting. It is unpleasant and aversive.
Coping: Moves the individual away from a stimulus that may be harmful (protection).
CONTEMPT (secondary emotion between disgust and anger)
7. ANGER
Intensity: Annoyance- anger- Anger
Red color
Keyword: Enemy
Function: Danger destruction
Definition: Feeling of anger, annoyance, annoyance, fury, hostility, hatred.
Coping: Helps to show strengths. It leads us to talk. Attack behavior.
AGGRESSIVENESS (secondary emotion between anger and anticipation)
8. ANTICIPATION (Expectation)
Intensity: Interest – Expectation – Alert
Orange
Keyword: Examination
Function: Exploration
Definition: Search for answers, resources or alternatives to face emotional conflicts or threats, internal or
external.
Coping: Leads to the search for realistic answers, alternative solutions (drawing maps). It allows you to discover
new territories.
OPTIMISM (secondary emotion between anticipation and joy)

PRIMARY DAYS (which give rise to secondary emotions)


Joy – Confidence: Love
Happiness. Anticipation: Optimism
Fear -Trust: Submission
Fear- Surprise: Awe (Dismay)
Sadness -Surprise: Disapproval
Sadness- Disgust: Remorse
Anger -Disgust: Contempt
Anger- Anticipation: Aggression

SECONDARY DAYS :
Joy-Fear: Guilt
Fear-Sadness: Despair
Anger -Sadness: Envy
Anger-Joy: Pride
Trust- Surprise: Curiosity
Anticipation-Trust: Fatalism
Anticipation -Rejection: Cynicism
Surprise- Rejection: ?

TERTIARY DAYADS
Joy- Surprise: Delight
Joy -Rejection: Morbidity
Sadness Confidence-: Sentimentalism
Sadness- Anticipation: Pessimism
Fear -Anticipation-: Anxiety
Fear- Rejection: Shame
Anger Surprise: Indignation
Anger-Trust: Domination
Types of secondary emotions and how they are
formed
Jan 17, 2022 | Coaching , Psychology and Psychopedagogy

The most basic human emotions, those common to other mammals, have become increasingly complex.
This evolution has provided man with a rich and diverse emotional spectrum thanks to the formation of
secondary emotions , which we are going to talk to you about in the next few lines. Shall we begin?
Remember that if you want to learn more about the types of emotions in childhood you can specialize with
our Master in Child Psychology and learn all the principles of emotional intelligence.
Index of contents
 What are secondary emotions?
o How are these types of emotions formed?
o When do secondary emotions appear?
o Because they are important?
 Types of secondary emotions
 Wheel of emotions according to Robert Plutchik
o 5 “universal” secondary emotions
 What is the difference between primary and secondary emotions?
o Stimulation of emotional intelligence

What are secondary emotions?


To understand what secondary emotions are, you must first know the two levels of emotion that humans
experience:
 Primary or basic emotions. The central ones are: sadness, joy, fear, trust, surprise, aversion,
anticipation, etc. Sometimes they are difficult to manage and we are terrified to show them to
others.
 Secondary emotions. They are those that we show with greater security. They often act as a
defense or protection to not expose our true primary emotions. This category includes frustration
or jealousy, for example. They have a high social component and, therefore, occur within a specific
social context. Furthermore, they are shaped by learning and socialization factors.
How are these types of emotions formed?
Emotions are a response determined by an external event or an internal moment such as a thought. What
is perceived by the senses is reviewed in certain areas of the cerebral cortex. Then, it is subjected to the
filter of the emotional system. Here perceptions are categorized based on emotions, that is, their
subjective value, and this may be culturally influenced.
There is a clear connection between emotions and feelings , although they are different types of brain
realities. As Antonio Damasio explains in Neurobiology of emotion and feelings (2005), feelings are preceded
by emotions, which are the organism's response to an event of biological relevance. On the contrary,
feelings are more of a subjective experience that can last longer than the emotion.
Therefore, when a secondary type of emotion develops, it is done based on self-assessment criteria
associated with personal development. Thus, they appear later than primary emotions, since they require
social contextualization.
When do secondary emotions appear?
2-year-old children, with a newly formed identity, experience feelings of shame or guilt from a very early
age. However, deeper social and cognitive development is essential to establish the ability to conceptualize
secondary emotions. Its conscious recognition takes place later, between 5 and 8 years old.
Because they are important?
Secondary emotions in children can help them reinforce their personality, but factors such as the level of
self-esteem or self-knowledge are key in the understanding process. Social and family values shape the
contextualization of these emotions, which is why they favor the integration of personal identity in the
collective area.

Types of secondary emotions


Next we are going to see specifically what the secondary emotions are and how many there are.
However, the classification may vary depending on the author you consult. Basically, there are two
emotional models: Paul Ekman's and Robert Plutchik's . They differ, to a large extent, in the
categorization of primary emotions, so that they do not agree regarding secondary ones.
In this case, we are going to explain to you what Plutchik's wheel of emotions consists of. We also
present the list of secondary emotions accepted by most models, including those of the two
aforementioned authors.

Wheel of emotions according to Robert Plutchik


The American psychologist Robert Plutchik developed a model of secondary emotions as the combination
of basic emotions. To explain his theory he created a famous graph called the wheel of emotions.
According to Plutchik's theory we start from eight basic emotions: joy, trust, fear, surprise, sadness,
aversion, anger and anticipation. From there we see some examples of combinations according to Plutchik:
 Optimism: joy and anticipation.
 Disappointment: surprise and sadness.
 Remorse: sadness and aversion.
 Contempt: aversion and anger.
 Aggression: anger and anticipation.
 Guilt: joy and fear.
 Curiosity: confidence and surprise.
 Despair: fear and sadness.
 Envy: sadness and anger.
 Cynicism: aversion + anticipation.
 Domination: confidence and anger.
 Shame: fear and disgust.
 Anxiety: fear and anticipation.
 Outrage: surprise and anger.
 Pessimism: sadness and anticipation.
5 “universal” secondary emotions
Although they present somewhat different emotional models, both Ekman and Plutchik consider that these
five are among the universal secondary emotions :
1. Shame: fear that others will not accept us on a social level.
2. Guilt: feeling of having done something that, in our opinion, we should not have done.
3. Pride : feeling of being satisfied with oneself or one's actions.
4. Pleasure: pleasant feeling that occurs when we meet our needs.
5. Jealousy: occurs when we perceive a threat towards something we consider ours.
What is the difference between primary and secondary
emotions?
Basic and secondary emotions coexist , but are activated differently. To illustrate this visually, think of
emotions in general as an iceberg. The secondaries are the part that is above the surface of the water (the
part that we see) and the primaries are below (the part that we do not see).
In other words, secondary emotions are a consequence of our own growth, the relationships we establish
with the environment and the involvement of several primary emotions. Thus, from joy comes pleasure
and attachment, or from fear comes phobia and anxiety.
An example that will help you understand it in a more practical way: during a couple's argument, anger can
be shown, with the associated behaviors (louder tone of voice, redder skin, etc.). However, what is really
felt on an internal level is fear that in this case one member of the couple will abandon the other if the
latter disappoints them. In this sense, we observe deeper secondary emotions that are camouflaged in a
primary or basic emotion (such as anger in this case).
Stimulation of emotional intelligence
Reinforcing education in emotional intelligence and teaching how to manage emotions is key to
promoting optimal emotional development from childhood. It is important that fathers, mothers and
educators accompany minors in understanding and identifying emotions and feelings. In this way, children
will know how to externalize primary and secondary emotions , strengthening their capacity for
empathy, self-esteem, security and mental and emotional strength.
In this sense, in order to express our deepest primary emotions , we must feel confident doing so. Being
emotionally secure in relationships favors the expression of secondary emotions. This affects all types of
relationships: romantic, family, friendships, etc. And it can be a way to protect yourself and avoid showing
primary, often uncomfortable emotions.
To resolve a conflict between two or more people, to show their basic emotions, they usually resort to a
safe place. Reassurance and therapeutic guidance can help process these deeper emotions. The goal is to
learn to express them in a healthy way to reinforce trust in interactions.
In conclusion, secondary emotions are manifested and, at the same time, are acquired as we grow and
through social contact. Likewise, depending on several factors, its development is linked to the evolution of
personal identity.

Basic emotions: What and what are the primary


and secondary emotions
What will you find in this article?
 1.- What are primary or basic emotions.
 1.1.- Characteristics of the basic emotions of the human being
 1.2.- What are the basic emotions according to the different authors
 1.2.1.- The 6 basic emotions (Ekman, Goleman)
 1.2.2.- The four basic emotions (Glasgow University)
 1.2.3.- 5 basic emotions
 1.2.4.- The 7 basic emotions
 1.2.5.- Plutchik's basic emotions (wheel of 8 basic and 8 advanced
emotions)
 1.2.6.- Aguado: Basic emotional universe (10 emotions)
 1.3.- Functions of basic emotions
 2.- Secondary or complex emotions
 2.1.- Functions of secondary emotions
 2.2.- Classifications of complex emotions
 2.2.1.- Social emotions
 2.2.2.- Moral emotions
 2.2.3.- Aesthetic emotions
 3.- Other classifications of the emotional universe
 3.1.- Lazarus (1991)
 3.2.- Bisquerra (2009)
 3.3.- Family of emotions

1.- What are primary or basic emotions.


Basic or primary emotions appear during the natural development of any person, regardless of
the context in which they develop, and their purpose is to help us survive, direct our behavior and
promote our relationship with each other.
Basic emotions help us defend ourselves or distance ourselves from harmful stimuli (enemies,
dangers...) or approach pleasant stimuli or rewards (water, food, sexual activity, play...) and their
function is to maintain survival, both personal and that of the species. .
“Discrete (basic) emotions are emotions that cannot be divided into others”
Niedenthal, Krauth-Gruber and Ric (2006)

1.1.- Characteristics of the basic emotions of the human being


The main characteristics of basic emotions in human beings are:
 They are identified by a certain expression (facial-body)
 They cause a predisposition to characteristic action (adaptive function)
 They are those that have had an essential role in the adaptation of the organism to its
environment (survival, procreation...)
 They are universal, they occur in all human cultures
 They are present from birth
 They last over time
 They are contagious (if we see a person laughing, their joy infects us)
 They cause an involuntary biological reaction in the body
 Some authors consider them as primary motivational systems.
We represent here the expressions of basic emotions and we have also included love and shame as we consider them emotions

that are very present in childhood.

1.2.- What are the basic emotions according to the different authors
1.2.1.- The 6 basic emotions (Ekman, Goleman)
This classification of basic emotions is the most widespread and accepted. It was conceived by
Paul Ekman (1979), psychologist, researcher and professor, who was a pioneer in the study of
emotions and their facial expression. He identified 6 basic and practically universal emotions in
all cultures. According to their studies these are: Fear, sadness, anger, joy, surprise and
disgust .
For Daniel Goleman (1995) , psychologist, journalist, writer and scientific communicator, famous
for his book “Emotional Intelligence”, there are also 6 basic emotions: Fear, sadness, anger,
happiness, surprise and aversion .
1.2.2.- The four basic emotions (Glasgow University)
According to a recent study carried out at the University of Glasgow in the United Kingdom, and
taking into account the reactions of the different facial muscles that produce emotions, they
conclude that there are 4 basic emotions : Fear, sadness, anger and happiness . They
consider that fear and surprise share the same base signal (eyes wide open) and also disgust and
anger (wrinkled nose).
1.2.3.- 5 basic emotions
This classification of basic emotions responds to the decision of the scriptwriters of the Pixar film
“Inside Out” who chose only five emotions to represent due to the limitations of the script. They
decided that the 5 basic emotions are: Fear, sadness, anger, joy and disgust , taking into
consideration that these can be found and identified in all cultures of the world.
1.2.4.- The 7 basic emotions
Paul Ekman , in the 1990s, considering that emotions are universal and have a biological origin,
expanded his previous classification to 7 basic emotions : Fear, sadness, anger, happiness,
surprise, disgust and contempt . Including contempt when considering that this emotion and its
expression are universally recognized.
1.2.5.- Plutchik's basic emotions (wheel of 8 basic and 8 advanced emotions)
Robert Plutchik (1980), psychologist and professor, created the Wheel of Emotions which shows
the interrelationship of human emotions, with 8 basic emotions: Fear, sadness, anger, joy,
surprise, trust, displeasure and anticipation and 8 advanced emotions that They are obtained
from the first: Love, contempt, optimism, submission, fear, disappointment, remorse and
treachery .

Plutchik's Wheel of Basic Emotions (1980) represents 8 basic emotions and 2 intensities of each of them and 8 advanced

emotions , formed by the conjunction of 2 basic emotions.

1.2.6.- Aguado: Basic emotional universe (10 emotions)


Roberto Aguado (2005) includes another four to the list of the 6 basic emotions to complete his so-
called basic emotional universe based on biochemical processes. Thus it is made up of: Fear,
sadness, anger, joy, surprise, disgust, guilt, admiration, curiosity and security .
1.3.- Functions of basic emotions
Basic or primary emotions have a recognizable adaptive function that implies the inclination
towards a certain behavior, that is, there is a motivational function of emotions :
 Fear prepares us for flight, avoidance, coping or protection from danger.
 Sadness tends to personal reintegration, introspection and reconciliation
 Anger gives us resources for self-defense or attack
 Joy tends towards action, affiliation, flexible and divergent thinking
 The surprise to stop and focus attention on the unexpected
 Disgust or aversion tends to reject or avoid what could harm us.
 Guilt tends to repair
 The admiration to imitate
 Curiosity tends towards exploration
 Security in control
As we have seen, emotions have the original function of maintaining survival. But what we must
keep in mind is that, today, our survival is generally guaranteed and therefore, emotions inform us
of dangers that may not be real or obvious and we must review whether or not they are helping us
in our current situation. .
2.- Secondary or complex emotions
When basic emotions are combined to produce other more complex emotions, the so-called
secondary, complex or derived emotions are produced, since they are derived from the primary
ones. For example, shame is a mixture of guilt and fear .
Secondary emotions do not present characteristic facial features, nor a particular tendency to
action, so they can go unnoticed or be hidden (for example, jealousy ).
2.1.- Functions of secondary emotions
In many secondary emotions we find recognizable adaptive functions :
 Anxiety (anticipation of fear) motivates preparation for danger
 Hostility to inhibit undesirable behaviors of other people, to avoid a confrontational
situation or inclination towards aggressiveness
 Humor and its general expression, laughter, leads to an attitude of affiliation, the spread of
a positive mood in the group.
 Love leads to the care and protection of the loved one…
2.2.- Classifications of complex emotions
2.2.1.- Social emotions
They are characteristics of people, they do not occur in animals. Social groups have principles,
norms, rules, habits, codes of conduct, etiquette, etc., which are not necessarily moral. Social
emotions are complex emotions that are learned and that vary depending on the customs, norms
and social beliefs of a given culture.
The language of emotions has a great social burden, so that each culture conditions the meaning
and expressive language of these emotions. Among the social emotions we can highlight pride ,
humiliation , contempt and regret .
Cards from the pride family belonging to the EMOTION game! expand your emotional vocabulary

2.2.2.- Moral emotions


Moral norms are those based on principles valid for all human beings, while social norms are
specific to certain groups. Moral norms pursue the well-being of all human beings, the satisfaction
of their basic needs and respect for their fundamental rights. Moral rules or principles are based
on mutual respect and the avoidance of harm, suffering and injustice.
Therefore, moral emotions arise from the perception of the violation or not of these universal
principles. The most important are guilt , shame , indignation and remorse .
2.2.3.- Aesthetic emotions
They are the emotional response to beauty and have many educational applications: art history,
artistic expression, music, literature... It is advisable to learn to savor aesthetic emotions to build
well-being. Art in all its expressions aims to activate aesthetic emotions. Among them we find
rapture , enchantment , admiration , falling in love .
3.- Other classifications of the emotional universe
3.1.- Lazarus (1991)
It includes compassion and hope in the group of ambiguous emotions (although in our culture
we consider them positive emotions)
 Compassion occurs when suffering (negative emotion) is combined with love (positive
emotion). We feel compassion for a person who is suffering and for whom love is also felt
or awakened.
 Hope , you feel it when you have a bad time but you trust you will overcome it. It combines
a negative present emotion with the anticipation of a positive future.
3.2.- Bisquerra (2009)
It classifies emotions from a psychopedagogical perspective , designed to be used in emotional
education.
Group emotions into 5 families:
1. Positive : joy, love and happiness
2. Negatives : fear, anger, sadness, disgust and anxiety
3. Ambiguous : surprise, compassion and hope
4. Social : shame, shyness, jealousy, guilt and envy...
5. Aesthetics : those experienced before works of art and beauty
3.3.- Family of emotions
Emotions can be grouped into families and each family of emotions contains a collection of
nuances within the same emotional specificity ( fear includes fear , dread , terror ..., aversion
includes disgust , rejection , disgust ...).
Some emotions can be classified into various families, such as frustration , which can be found in
the family of anger or sadness, or fear, which can be included in the family of surprise or fear .
Here we leave you our particular classification of emotions, of a didactic nature, in which the
understanding of the different intensities within each family of emotions takes precedence over
other criteria. If you want, you can download this list of definitions of 60 emotions grouped into
12 families by subscribing to our page.

We know our emotions thanks to their intrusion into our conscious minds, whether it is welcome
or not. But emotions did not evolve as conscious feelings.
Emotions evolved as a result of behavioral and physiological specializations: physical responses
controlled by the brain that allowed ancient organisms to survive in hostile environments and
procreate.
Even though much progress has been made in defining emotions, to this day, psychology
continues to study whether any particular reaction is identified with a specific emotion. For
example, if chills are an exclusive reaction to fear.
Despite this, most specialists agree on drawing a line across all human emotions and
distinguishing those that are primary (evolutionarily) from those that are secondary.
For the psychologist Theodore Ribot, our personality involves in its depth the origin of the great
affective trinity constituted by fear, anger and desire: they are the three instincts born directly
from organic life: defensive instinct, offensive instinct, nutritional instinct.
From this starting point, fear and anger
were maintained, and joy and sadness were added, four emotions that higher mammals also
possess, and a picture of four primary emotions was then formed, with their respective variety of
manifestations:
In 'The expression of emotions in man and animals' , Charles Darwin stated that 'the main acts of
expression manifested by man and other lower animals are innate or inherited, that is, the
individual has not acquired them'.
As proof that emotions are innate, he pointed out the similarity of expressions in the same
species and between different species. Darwin was quite impressed by the fact that man's bodily
expressions that occur when emotions occur, especially facial expressions, are the same
throughout the world, regardless of ethnic or cultural origins. He also indicated that these same
expressions are present in people who were born blind and who, therefore, lack the possibility of
having learned muscle movements by seeing them in others, and that they are also present in
children who have not had much time to learn. learn to imitate them.
Primary emotions are usually accompanied by clear physical cues. When we are depressed, our
body mobilizes (or demobilizes) to disconnect. And when we are happy, our body mobilizes to
make positive commitments and actions. Certain muscles activate to support certain actions, and
the brain sends special messages to the endocrine glands (which control the production and
release of hormones) and the autonomic nervous system (which regulates organs over which you
have no voluntary control, such as the heart and stomach.
What are secondary emotions?

Currently, for most authors there are eight basic emotions, of which four are primary: anger, joy,
fear and sadness and another four are secondary, with their respective varieties of
manifestations.

Other expert opinions


Other theorists consider the 8 mentioned so far (primary and secondary) to be basic emotions,
and postulate that secondary emotions would be the result of fusions or mixtures of the most
basic ones. Izard, for example, describes anxiety as the combination of fear and two other
emotions, which can be guilt, interest, shame or agitation.
Plutchik has presented one of the best developed theories about the combination of emotions. It
uses a circle of emotions, analogous to the color wheel in which the mixture of elemental colors
provides others. Each basic emotion occupies a place in the circle. Combinations made up of two
basic emotions are called 'dyads'. Those composed of adjacent basic emotions in the circle are
called 'primary dyads'; Those composed of basic emotions separated from each other by a third
are called 'secondary dyads', etc.

In this scheme, love is a primary dyad resulting from the mixture of two adjacent basic emotions:
joy and acceptance, while guilt is a secondary dyad formed by joy and fear, which are separated
by acceptance. The more distance there is between two basic emotions, the less likely they are to
mix. And if two distant emotions mix, conflict is likely to arise. Fear and surprise are adjacent and
combine directly to give rise to a state of alarm, but joy and fear are separated from each other
by acceptance, and their fusion is imperfect: the resulting conflict is the source of guilt.

Both primary and secondary emotions almost never occur in isolation, rather they are a
combination of all the families of basic emotions mentioned. For example, jealousy can be a
combination of anger, sadness, and fear.

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