The Basics of Roseman’s Appraisal Model of Emotions

Roseman’s Theory of Appraisal is rooted in the cognitive appraisal theories of emotion, which suggest that our emotions are determined by our evaluations (appraisals) of events and situations. Roseman explains that the essence of appraisal theory in its simplest form is “the claim that emotions are elicited by evaluations (appraisals) of events and situations.” Roseman goes on to give the example that “sadness felt when a romantic relationship ends may be elicited by the appraisals that something desired has been lost, with certainty, and cannot be recovered” (Roseman & Smith, 2001).

According to Roseman, emotions arise from a complex interplay of appraisal processes that involve several dimensions. These dimensions help individuals interpret the significance of an event and subsequently trigger specific emotional responses.

Dimensions of Appraisal Cognitions

According to Roseman, seven appraisals directly influence emotions:

1. Unexpectedness: not unexpected/unexpected (whether the event violates one’s expectations);
2. Situational State: motive-inconsistent/motive-consistent (whether the event is unwanted or is wanted by the person);
3. Motivational State: aversive/ appetitive (whether the event is being related to a desire to get less of something punishing or a desire to get more of something rewarding);
4. Probability: uncertain/ certain (whether the occurrence of motive-relevant aspects of the event is merely possible or is definite);
5. Agency: circumstances/other person/self (what or who caused the motive-relevant event);
6. Control Potential: low/high (whether there is nothing one can do or something one can do about the motive-relevant aspects of an event);
7. Problem Type: instrumental/intrinsic (whether a motive-inconsistent event is unwanted because it blocks attainment of a goal or unwanted because of some inherent characteristic) (Roseman, 2001).

Each of these dimensions, according to Roseman, are part of the appraisal process. Accordingly, the combination of these different appraisals equate to a different experience of emotion (Roseman, 1979). For instance, the experience of fear would be a motive inconsistent, uncertain probability, related to circumstances. Other constructions according to the theory are “sadness (sorrow) results from an absence of reward that is certain and caused by impersonal circumstances when a negative outcome is deserved.” However, the same components for sadness but with the absence of a reward elicits anger (Roseman et al., 1990).

Roseman’s first chart with five dimensions was the clearest. As his research discovered emotions, such as surprise and disgust, that were missing from the original construction of the theory, he added them.

Roseman’s Concept of Emotion

Roseman defined emotions as “alternative general-purpose coping responses to perceptions of the fate of motives.” Basically, emotions were a response to the collision of motives with the environment. As life routinely conflicts with our motives, the conflict elicits a coping reaction. Roseman explains that discrete emotions are associated with “basic ways of coping with events that bear upon a person’s successful functioning in an environment” (Roseman, 1984). Emotions motivate action in crisis situations. Moreover, in addition to emotions motivating survival behaviors in the presence of a threat, they also motivate action when opportunities are available.

Emotion Syndromes

Roseman explains:

“Emotions are syndromes composed of several response components: phenomenological (thoughts and feelings characteristic of the emotion); physiological (patterns of neural, chemical, and muscular responses); expressive (facial, vocal, and/or postural changes); behavioral (tendencies or readinesses to take particular actions); and emotivational (goals that people want to pursue when experiencing the emotion). The responses in each emotion syndrome, rather than being a random collection, seem interrelated and integrated into a distinctive (evolution-shaped and typically unconscious) strategy for coping with a particular type of situation” (Roseman, 2013).

Roseman adds to this concept that each component of an “emotion syndrome has a function in implementing the emotion’s coping strategy.” The emotivational component provides “a goal that motivates and directs instrumental action to fit with the emotion’s strategy” (Roseman, 2013).

These later concepts of Roseman, nearly thirty-five years after his initial proposal of the five dimensions. better incorporate the vast complexity of emotions in the human experience.

Implications and Applications of Roseman’s Appraisal Model

Roseman’s Appraisal Model has significant implications for both psychological research and practical applications. By understanding the appraisal processes that underlie emotional experiences, researchers can gain insights into the mechanisms of emotion regulation, emotional disorders, and the development of therapeutic interventions.

Emotion Regulation

Emotion regulation involves strategies that individuals use to manage and modify their emotional responses. Roseman’s theory highlights the importance of cognitive appraisals in this process. By altering appraisals, individuals can change their emotional reactions to events. For example, reappraising a challenging situation as an opportunity for growth rather than a threat can reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.

See Emotional Regulation for more on this concept

Clinical Applications

In clinical settings, Roseman’s theory can inform therapeutic approaches for individuals with emotional disorders. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other therapeutic modalities often focus on changing maladaptive appraisals to improve emotional well-being. By helping clients reframe their appraisals, therapists can guide them towards healthier emotional responses.

Interpersonal Relationships

Understanding the appraisal processes in Roseman’s theory can also enhance interpersonal relationships. By recognizing how different appraisals influence emotional reactions, individuals can improve their communication and empathy skills. This awareness can foster more supportive and understanding interactions with others.

A Few Words by Psychology Fanatic

In conclusion, Roseman’s Appraisal Model of Emotions provides a vital lens through which we can comprehend the intricate relationship between our cognitive evaluations and emotional responses. By examining the interplay of appraisals across various dimensions, we gain deeper insights into how emotions are not merely reactive phenomena but rather complex responses shaped by our interpretations of events. This understanding echoes the ongoing quest in psychology to unravel the mechanisms that govern human emotion—highlighting that emotions arise from a rich tapestry woven from individual perceptions, cultural contexts, and situational factors.

As we continue to explore the nuances of Roseman’s theory, it becomes evident that its implications extend beyond academic inquiry into practical realms such as emotion regulation and therapeutic practices. The ability to reshape our appraisals offers powerful tools for enhancing emotional well-being and fostering healthier interpersonal relationships. Thus, embracing this model encourages us not only to reflect on our emotional experiences but also empowers us with strategies for navigating life’s challenges more effectively—transforming our journey through both personal growth and deeper connections with others along the way.

Last Update: April 17, 2026

Associated Concepts

• Emotional Differentiation: This refers to the ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions, as well as the emotions of others. It involves being able to discern between different feelings and express them appropriately.
• Frustration-Aggression Hypothesis: This theory posits that frustration often leads to aggressive behavior. When individuals are blocked from achieving a goal or fulfilling a need, it can generate a state of frustration, which in turn increases the likelihood of aggressive responses.
• Appraisal Bias: This refers to systematic distortions or inaccuracies in how individuals evaluate events and situations.
• James-Lange Theory of Emotions: This theory proposes that physical changes and behavioral reactions occur in the body occur without cognition. Following the feelings affects and behavioral reaction, cognitions interpret the meaning, creating the emotion.
• Schachter and Singer’s Two-Factor Theory of Emotion: This theory proposed by Schachter and Singer states emotions result from physiological arousal and cognitive interpretation. Physiological arousal alone is not emotion. Cognitive labeling is key.
• Pleasure-Arousal-Dominance (PAD) Model: This model developed by Albert Mehrabian and James A. Russell measures emotions using three dimensions: Pleasure, Arousal, and Dominance. By understanding these dimensions, we gain insights into emotional experiences and their impact on behavior and decision-making.
• Cannon-Bard Theory of Emotion: This theory proposes that physiological arousal and emotional experiences occur simultaneously yet independently. It challenges the James-Lange Theory and emphasizes the roles of the thalamus and cerebral cortex. This theory has significantly impacted the study of emotions.
• Appraisal Theory of Emotion: These theories emphasize that emotions stem from our assessments of events and circumstances, rather than the events themselves. It highlights the role of cognitive processes in shaping emotions and addresses primary and secondary appraisals.