Positive emotion expands visual attention...Or maybe not...

A considerable amount of research has investigated the effect of emotion on visual attention. One prominent model in the field is the broaden-and-build theory, which suggests positive emotions broaden the scope of attention. In addition, the theory proposes positive emotions increase the amount of resources available to a person, which can thus accumulate to enhance life skills and well being. However, while there is evidence to support this theory, other research has critiqued certain aspects of the model. Some studies propose that the methods used to investigate the broaden-and-build theory do not accurately measure the broadening of attention, while others highlight that a broadening of attentional resources is not always advantageous. Moreover, evidence has shown that different types of positive and negative emotions impact differently on the scope of attention. This paper will discuss the different aspects of research in the area, and explore the influence of emotion on the spread of visual attention.