Emotions and motivation are central to psychology, shaping human behavior, decision-making, and social interaction. Emotions are multifaceted responses involving physiological arousal, subjective experience, and expressive behavior, while motivation drives action toward goals, fulfilling needs and desires. Together, they explain why humans act, react, and adapt in dynamic environments.
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Emotions serve critical adaptive functions, guiding responses to threats, opportunities, and social interactions. Basic emotions, such as happiness, sadness, fear, anger, surprise, and disgust, are universally recognized and biologically ingrained. Complex emotions, including guilt, pride, and shame, develop through social learning and cultural norms. Emotional expression facilitates communication, allowing individuals to convey feelings, intentions, and social cues. Furthermore, emotions influence cognition, memory, and decision-making, highlighting the interplay between affect and thought.
