Delving into "How Emotions are Made" by Lisa Feldman Barrett has profoundly shifted my perspective on emotions. The book eloquently disputes the traditional view of emotions as mere reactions to stimuli, offering instead the enlightening concept of constructed emotion—a notion that resonates with the AIP model and Polyvagal theory.
This innovative approach posits that emotions are not simple, reflexive responses. Rather, they are the result of a sophisticated blend of our past experiences, how we process what we perceive, and the context we find ourselves in. It's a revelation that suggests our brains craft emotions by drawing on memories to interpret and make sense of new information.
For therapists, this means that a holistic approach is essential—one that considers not just the immediate emotional response but also the intricate tapestry of a client's history and how they interpret the world. This insight is particularly promising for enhancing therapeutic strategies for individuals grappling with dissociative disorders and Functional Neurological Disorder (FND).
The implications of Barrett's theory extend beyond individual therapy and touch on societal and cultural dimensions. It underscores our interconnectedness, highlighting how we influence each other's emotional states and, in turn, how the collective emotional environment shapes our brains and behaviour.
In a world where billions are invested in technologies to decode emotions from facial expressions, Barrett's findings suggest such efforts might be misguided, as emotions are not universally expressed or recognised.
Her work is a testament to the uniqueness of our emotional experiences and the intricate processes that underlie them. I wholeheartedly recommend "How Emotions are Made" to anyone seeking a deeper comprehension of the emotional tapestry that weaves through our lives. It's a read that promises to enlighten and transform your understanding of what it means to feel.
