Recent theoretical convergence in the area if emotion psychology suggests a need for studies adopting a dynamic, process-oriented multi-component study of emotional response patterning as predicted by cognitive theories of emotion (appraisal as antecedent of emotion elicitation and differentiation). The Geneva Emotion Research Group has made a number of contributions to this area, in particular with respect to concrete predictions on emotional response patterning following antecedent event appraisal as well as to measuring subjective experience, vocal and facial expression, and psychophysiological reactions. A series of experiments are proposed to empirically examine the theoretical predictions made in Scherer's component process model of emotion (1984, 1986) using emotion-induction via an interactive computer game. Within the context of the game, events likely to produce particular appraisal results will be systematically manipulated. The responses to these manipulations in facial and vocal expression as well as psychophysiological responding will be recorded. The subjective experience component will be obtained via computer-prompted verbal report immediately after the emotion-eliciting manipulation. In addition to the experimental investigation of the theoretical predictions, the results are to provide the basis for future AI simulations of emotion processes. Scherer, K. R. (1986). Vocal affect expression: A review and a model for future research. Psychological Bulletin, 99(2), 143-165. Scherer, K.R. (1984). Emotion as a multicomponent process: A model and some cross-cultural data. In P. Shaver (Ed.), Review of Personality and Social Psychology, Vol.5. Beverly Hills, CA: Sage, pp. 37-63.
