Muni's PlayThe upward and downward spirals are self-perpetuating emotional cycles that influence an individual’s long-term well-being and resources.
Downward Spiral (Negativity)
- Triggered by: Negative emotions (e.g., fear, sadness, anger).
- Effect on Mindset: Narrows attention, thinking, and behavioral options (leads to rigid, defensive, or stereotyped actions).
- Resource Impact: Depletes psychological, social, and physical resources over time.
- Outcome: Perpetuates negative emotional states and increases vulnerability; implicated in disorders like depression and anxiety.
Upward Spiral (Positivity)
- Triggered by: Positive emotions (e.g., joy, interest, awe).
- Effect on Mindset: Broadens attention and thought-action repertoires (leads to openness, flexibility, and exploratory behavior).
- Resource Impact: Builds durable resources (like resilience and social connections) that support coping and mental health.
- Outcome: Perpetuates positive emotional states and counters the deleterious effects of stress and negativity.
References:
- Fredrickson, B. L. (2001). The broaden-and-build theory of positive emotions. Philosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London. Series B, Biological Sciences.
See also: Behavioral Activation