Vygotsky’s concept of emotion: the indissociability of affective and cognitive aspects in human development

Abstract

Objective This article presents a diachronic review of Lev Vygotsky’s concept of emotion and its significance in understanding human development. Method The article has a theoretical methodology and emphasizes the importance of situating the analysis of emotions within the context of human work and the meanings attributed to it. Results Vygotsky’s innovative approach transcends the traditional dichotomy between emotion and cognition, emphasizing the integrated nature of human experience. His concept of higher psychological functions highlights the cultural-historical context in which these functions are developed, forming the basis for projecting collective social interactions into individual psychological processes. The author argues that emotions are fundamental to personality development and self-regulation, shaped by cultural influences. Conclusion While Vygotsky did not provide precise definitions of emotion and feeling, his work underscores their dynamic and transformative nature. Emotions, as dynamic elements of personality, contribute to the construction of the individual’s psychological life and influence social interactions.