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ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS:
All reflection discussions must be 1-2 pages (approx. 500 words) and use APA citation style.
Provide citations for 2 readings (APA citation style)
Provide a summary for each reading
Discuss the major theme(s) or argument(s) of each reading
In 1-2 paragraphs, discuss your thoughts on the readings and how they connect to the week’s lesson.
HOW TO WORK ON THIS ASSIGNMENT (EXAMPLE ESSAY / DRAFT)
Reading 1: Citation: Gross, J. J. (1998). The emerging field of emotion regulation: An integrative review. Review of General Psychology, 2(3), 271–299. https://doi.org/10.1037/1089-2680.2.3.271
Summary: This article provides an integrative review of the field of emotion regulation, which involves the processes by which individuals influence the nature, intensity, and duration of their emotional experiences. The author discusses the various ways in which emotion regulation can occur, including both automatic and controlled processes. The article also reviews the empirical evidence on the effectiveness of different emotion regulation strategies, and discusses the implications of this research for understanding the development and treatment of emotional disorders.
Major Themes/Arguments: The major themes in this article are the importance of emotion regulation in psychological functioning, the different types of emotion regulation strategies that can be employed, and the effectiveness of these strategies in promoting emotional well-being. The author argues that emotion regulation is a crucial component of adaptive functioning, and that individuals who are skilled at regulating their emotions are better able to cope with stress and maintain positive relationships. The article also highlights the importance of using adaptive rather than maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, as certain strategies (such as suppression) can have negative consequences for emotional well-being.
Reading 2: Citation: Baumeister, R. F., Bratslavsky, E., Finkenauer, C., & Vohs, K. D. (2001). Bad is stronger than good. Review of General Psychology, 5(4), 323–370. https://doi.org/10.1037/1089-2680.5.4.323
Summary: This article provides a comprehensive review of research on the “negativity bias,” which refers to the tendency for negative information to have a stronger impact on behavior and cognition than positive information. The authors discuss various factors that contribute to the negativity bias, including evolutionary pressures, social and cultural influences, and cognitive and affective processes. The article also reviews empirical evidence on the effects of the negativity bias in various domains, such as interpersonal relationships, decision making, and mental health.
Major Themes/Arguments: The major theme in this article is the pervasive influence of the negativity bias on human behavior and cognition. The authors argue that the negativity bias is a fundamental aspect of human psychology, and that it serves important adaptive functions in promoting survival and well-being. However, they also highlight the potential negative consequences of the negativity bias, such as increased susceptibility to depression and anxiety, and impaired decision making. The article emphasizes the need for individuals to be aware of the negativity bias and to use strategies to counteract its effects, such as focusing on positive information and reframing negative experiences.
My Thoughts: These two readings provide valuable insights into the complex interplay between emotions, cognition, and behavior. The article on emotion regulation highlights the importance of being able to manage one’s emotional experiences in a way that promotes well-being and adaptive functioning. It also emphasizes the need to use adaptive rather than maladaptive emotion regulation strategies, such as reframing negative experiences rather than suppressing them. The article on the negativity bias underscores the pervasive influence of negative information on human cognition and behavior, and the potential negative consequences of this bias. However, it also provides strategies for counteracting the negativity bias, such as focusing on positive information and engaging in cognitive reappraisal. These insights are particularly relevant to this week’s lesson on stress and coping, as they highlight the importance of developing effective coping strategies for managing stress and promoting well-being.
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