Before we dive into what primary and secondary emotions are, let me ask you something. What emotions will you feel when you get into an argument with your partner? Probably angry, sad, disappointed, or upset, right? These emotions that you are feeling, are your primary emotions.
What are primary emotions?
Primary emotions, also known as basic emotions or core emotions, are a limited set of emotions that are universally recognized across cultures. These emotions generally arise as a direct response to a situation or an event. So going back to our example, the argument is directly causing you to feel sad, upset, and angry, making them your primary set of emotions. Along with sadness, and anger, some of the other emotions that are considered primary emotions are fear, surprise, joy, content, and disgust.
What are Secondary Emotions?
Secondary emotions, as the name suggests, come second in line. These are the emotions you experience in response to your primary emotions. Circling back to our example of getting into an argument. If you are someone who has been brought up with the idea that arguing with your partner is wrong, then you will automatically start feeling guilty for being angry. This guilt that you will probably experience in return for the anger, is your secondary emotion.
