Conceptual approaches to studying interpersonal emotion dynamics

The purpose of this chapter is to present an overview of major theories that contribute to understanding interpersonal emotion dynamics. On the background of a discussion of appraisal theory, as a major emotion theory that can be applied to interpersonal emotion processes, we discuss important theoretical perspectives that elucidate social effects and functions of emotions. We then summarize theory on social or interpersonal emotion regulation and conceptualizations of temporal components of these processes. We conclude the chapter by presenting the SCOPE framework, which conceptualizes interpersonal emotion dynamics in close relationships based on situational, contextual and personal factors and processes.