Theories of Emotional Development: Where Have We Been and Where Are We Now?

Abstract

In this chapter, we review several theories of emotional development. For each, we address definitions and basic tenets, we ask what “develops” and how emotions change with age. What is particularly noteworthy is that although there are several emotional development theories, none ascribes to a single emotion theory. Moreover, no single emotional development theory guides contemporary research. In the second half of the chapter, we review other conceptual frameworks and theories that are not emotion theories per se but are widely used to guide research on emotional development. Throughout this chapter, we provide illustrative empirical examples for aspects of each theory. In many ways, this chapter is a primer on emotion development theory rather than an exhaustive review of each theory. We end with a recommendation calling for empirical evidence to guide theory development.