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Physiology of Emotions

Encircling the brain stem is a ring of structures of structures on the inner border of the cerebrum and floor of the diencephalons that forms the limbic system. Limbic system governs emotional aspects of behavior. The hippocampus, together with portion of the cerebrum, also functions in memory. Because of this relationship, events that cause a strong emotional response are remembered much more efficiently than those that do not. Although behavior is a function of the entire nervous system, the limbic system controls most of its involuntary aspects.

Specific types of sensory, motor, and integrative signals are processed in certain cerebral regions. Generally, the sensory areas receive and interpret sensory impulses. Sensory input to the cerebral cortex flows mainly to the posterior half of the hemispheres, to regions posterior to the central sulci. In the cortex, primary sensory areas have the most direct connections with peripheral sensory receptors. Secondary sensory areas and sensory association areas often are adjacent to the primary areas. Usually, they receive input from the primary areas and from diverse other regions of the brain. They participate in the interpretation of sensory experiences into meaningful patterns of recognition and awareness.

Experiments have shown that the limbic system is associated with pleasure and pain. When certain areas of the limbic system are stimulated in animals, their reactions indicate they are experiencing intense pain. When other areas are stimulated, the animals' reactions indicate they are experiencing extreme pleasure. Stimulation of the amygdaloid body or certain nuclei of the hypothalamus in a cat results in a behavioral pattern called rage. The cat assumes a defensive posture-extending its claws, raising its tail, hissing, spitting, and opening its eyes wide. Stimulating other areas of the limbic system results in an opposite behavioral pattern: docility, tameness, and affection. Because the limbic system has a primary function in emotion such as pain, pleasure, anger, rage, fear, sorrow, sexual feelings, docility, and affection, it is sometimes called the "emotional" brain (Tortora & Grabowski, 1996, p. 410-411).

"Evidence suggests that serenity promotes health and well being. It give one a healthy mastery of emotions, decreases stress, and leads to improved interpersonal relations" (Roberts & Messenger, 1993, p.318). Serenity can be as asset in times of trial for it allows the individual the ability to accept with calmness that which cannot be changed. Roberts and Messenger note that many of the developmental theorists indicate a growing search for spirituality in people nearing the end of the life cycle, and liken serenity to "Spiritual aging" (Roberts & Messenger, 1993, p. 318). The nurse’s role can then be that of facilitator as he/she addresses this aspect of the life cycle with holistic care.

(Reference: Tortora, G.J., & Grabowski, S.R. (1996). Principles of anatomy and physiology. USA: Harper Collins College Publishers. 
                Robert,K.T., & Messenger, T.C. (1993). Helping older adults find serenity. Geriatric Nursing, 14 (6), p. 318).