Emotional states and physical health

Peter Salovey, Alexander J. Rothman, Jerusha B. Detweiler, Wayne T. Steward

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

671 Scopus citations

Abstract

Positive emotional states may promote healthy perceptions, beliefs, and physical well-being itself. To explore potential mechanisms linking pleasant feelings and good health, the authors consider several lines of research, including (a) direct effects of positive affect on physiology, especially the immune system, (b) the information value of emotional experiences, (c) the psychological resources engendered by positive feeling states, (d) the ways in which mood can motivate health-relevant behaviors, and (e) the elicitation of social support. As anticipated by the Greek physician Hippocrates, positive emotions and healthy outcomes may be linked through multiple pathways.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)110-121
Number of pages12
JournalThe American psychologist
Volume55
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Jan 2000
Externally publishedYes

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