Negative emotions in modern psychology and Buddhist thought: A conceptual and comparative analysis

Negative emotions constitute a central concern in both modern psychology and Buddhist thought, yet they are conceptualized within distinct theoretical and philosophical frameworks. This article presents a conceptual and comparative analysis of negative emotions as understood in contemporary psychological theories and Buddhist psychology. Drawing on authoritative secondary sources, the study examines key dimensions of comparison, including the definition and function of negative emotions, their underlying causes, the role of the self, and approaches to emotional change.

The analysis indicates that modern psychology primarily interprets negative emotions as adaptive affective responses that become problematic when dysregulated, emphasizing strategies of awareness and regulation to support psychological functioning. In contrast, Buddhist psychology conceptualizes negative emotions as afflictive mental states rooted in ignorance and attachment, framing emotional suffering as inseparable from self-clinging and existential dissatisfaction. While both traditions highlight the importance of awareness and non-reactivity, they diverge in their ultimate aims, with modern psychology focusing on adaptive well-being and Buddhist thought emphasizing transformative insight.

By clarifying these conceptual differences and points of convergence, the article contributes to a more precise understanding of how negative emotions are theorized across traditions. The findings underscore the value of comparative analysis for enriching theoretical discussions of emotion while acknowledging the distinct goals and assumptions underlying each framework.