According to Ekman's Facial Feedback Theory, facial expressions are linked to what?

Facial Feedback Theory, developed by psychologist Paul Ekman, posits that facial expressions can influence emotional experiences. This theory suggests that the physical act of making a facial expression can activate the same emotional pathways in the brain that are involved in experiencing that emotion. For example, smiling can lead to feelings of happiness, while frowning can enhance feelings of sadness.

Thus, when one engages in specific facial expressions, the muscle movements send signals to the brain that can enhance or alter emotional states. This means that emotions are not just a result of what we feel internally; our facial expressions also play a crucial role in shaping those feelings in a feedback loop. This intertwining of emotional feelings with sensory feedback from facial expressions highlights how our bodies and emotions interact.

The other options do not capture the essence of this theory. For instance, stating that expressions are linked only to emotional states overlooks the feedback mechanism that the theory emphasizes. The idea of a unique expression for every possible human emotion is too simplistic and doesn't align with the nuances of emotional expression recognized in psychology. Finally, focusing solely on physical responses without acknowledging the influence of feedback on emotions misses the crucial connecting link that this theory is built upon.