In this episode of Calm Your Caveman, the discussion picks up from previous sessions on anxiety master key concepts focusing on the appraisal theory as a tool for regulating emotions. Dr. Twitchell explains how appraisals, our brain's interpretations of situations, determine whether emotions are helpful or harmful by aligning with our goals.

The episode delves into the dimensions of appraisal: desirability, attribution, and expectancy, and how they influence our emotional responses in stressful situations. Special emphasis is placed on understanding the challenge versus threat response – the former being when demands are met by our resources, producing adaptive and facilitating stress, and the latter when demands exceed our resources, leading to detrimental and lingering stress. Practical tips are given for recognizing and altering these responses. Dr. Twitchell references key studies and provides resources for further exploration.


[00:00:00] - Introduction and Recap
[00:01:07] - Understanding Appraisal Theory
[00:07:22] - Unconscious Appraisals
[00:09:41] - Appraisal Dimensions
[00:12:24] - Stress and Coping
[00:15:44] - Challenge vs. Threat Response
[00:25:30] - Practical Exercises and Conclusion


For full show notes, including resources mentioned, go to:
https://www.calmyourcaveman.com/episodes/is-stress-good-or-bad-for-you%3F--anxiety-master-key-concepts%3A-part-ii