Affect Labeling
Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30
CORE DEFINITION
It refers to labeling one's current emotional state with words (e.g., "I feel angry right now"). Research shows that this can reduce the activity of the amygdala (the emotional center) and increase the activity of the prefrontal cortex (the rational center).
SCAFFOLDING EFFECT
Reduce cognitive load
The sedative of language. When we transform chaotic emotions into clear words, we control them to some extent. The more precise the label, the better the calming effect.
Anchor fast decisions
Memories are 'tagged' by emotional salience during encoding; the stronger the tag, the easier it is to remember (flashbulb memory). The mechanism is that emotional arousal enhances consolidation.
MINIMUM ACTION
In progress 0/1Practice this model in one real situation:
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Source support: Explicit
- en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Affect_labelingverified
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