Let’s explore the concept of primary and secondary emotions and why it’s important to distinguish between the two.
What are Primary and Secondary Emotions?
Primary and secondary emotions are based on the school of thought called Emotion Focus Therapy. Primary emotions are the root of what’s going on in the core, and they’re the original emotions we have to a certain situation. Secondary emotions are the reactions or emotions we have to our interpretation of that situation or the fact that we felt that original emotion.
Why Distinguish Between the Two?
It’s important to distinguish between primary and secondary emotions because communicating primary emotions is much healthier and way more likely to create connection. Primary emotions are the only way to meet the needs and wants that we have and address why we had that emotion in the first place. Secondary emotions, on the other hand, are often defense mechanisms that can be detrimental if we stay in them.
Identifying Primary Emotions:
In the theory of primary and secondary emotions, there’s a debate over what are the main primary emotions. According to the author, there are six primary emotions: sadness, fear, anger, love, joy, and empowerment. Primary emotions are usually not as intense as secondary emotions, which can be a continuum of emotions.
Example of Primary and Secondary Emotions:
If a parent’s child goes missing while shopping, the primary emotion is fear. However, being scared is an uncomfortable emotion that makes us feel powerless, so we often get angry as a secondary emotion. Scolding the child for going missing is an example of anger being the secondary emotion, with fear being the primary one.
Moving from Secondary to Primary Emotions:
Communicating out of secondary emotions can create disconnect and barriers between loved ones. To move from secondary to primary emotions, the easiest way is to label them. Once we identify the primary emotion, we can fulfill our needs and wants and create a deeper connection with others.
Understanding primary and secondary emotions is crucial for healthy communication and deeper connections with others. By identifying and communicating our primary emotions, we can address our needs and wants and fulfill them effectively.
