The broaden-and-build theory posits that positive emotions, such as joy, interest, contentment, and love, serve a unique adaptive purpose by widening an individual’s thought-action repertoire and building enduring personal resources. Instead of triggering specific action tendencies like fight or flight, these emotions promote exploration, creativity, and social connection. For instance, experiencing joy might lead to engaging in playful activities, fostering new skills and strengthening social bonds.
This perspective contrasts with traditional views of emotions that primarily emphasize their role in survival and threat response. Its significance lies in highlighting the potential of positive emotional experiences to enhance well-being, resilience, and overall psychological flourishing. This theory offers a framework for understanding how positive emotions contribute to long-term growth and adaptation. Originating from the work of Barbara Fredrickson, the model has become influential in positive psychology and has spurred research into the cultivation and benefits of positive emotional states.