Jan 19

Emotions and Social Bonding: Riding the Scheff Rollercoaster

Ever felt a tug at your heartstrings while watching a heartwarming movie or felt riled up at a soccer game? That's not just random feelings; it's society playing puppeteer with your emotions! Cue Thomas Scheff, the emotion whisperer.
Summary

Scheff delves deep into how emotions are not just personal experiences but also deeply connected to our social ties. He believes our feelings are influenced by societal discourses. So, yes, crying during a rom-com is a societal construct!  

Relevance 

To build more inclusive environments, it's essential to recognize how our emotions, and subsequently our behaviors, are influenced by societal norms. What's considered 'emotional' in one culture might be 'reserved' in another.  

Next time you shed a tear at a movie, you can grandly proclaim, "Society made me do it!" Thanks, Scheff!  

Call to Action

For a day, keep a mini diary of your emotions. Note down when you felt happy, sad, angry, or any other emotion.

Reflect: Were these feelings influenced by societal expectations or norms? Share your findings with a friend, comparing notes on the great emotional journey!

About the Series

Sympact™ Insights are short, digestible pieces designed to share insights and wisdom from academics and scholars around the world—living and deceased.

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