James-Lange theory

British

/ ˈdʒeɪmzˈlɑːŋɡə /

noun

psychol a theory that emotions are caused by bodily sensations; for example, we are sad because we weep

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of James-Lange theory

named after William _James + Carl Lange (1834–1900), Danish psychologist

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The James-Lange theory is itself concerned with order and connection between emotional states, perceptions, and responses.

From John Dewey's logical theory by Howard, Delton Thomas

But we may note that the James-Lange theory of an emotion regards it as a consciousness of the very changes in the organism adrenalin causes.

From The Glands Regulating Personality by Berman, Louis, M.D.

Modern views on the causation of emotions begin with what is called the James-Lange theory.

From The Analysis of Mind by Russell, Bertrand

There is nothing in all this that speaks either for or against the James-Lange theory.

From Psychology A Study Of Mental Life by Woodworth, Robert S.

Most people are rather impatient with the James-Lange theory, finding it wholly unsatisfactory, though unable to locate the trouble precisely.

From Psychology A Study Of Mental Life by Woodworth, Robert S.

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023