How is 'affect' defined in the context of emotional states?

In the context of emotional states, 'affect' refers specifically to the external expression of an internal emotional state. It encompasses the observable behaviors and facial expressions that convey how a person feels, making it visible to others. For instance, a person displaying joy may smile and exhibit animated gestures, while someone feeling sadness might appear withdrawn and have a downcast expression.

This definition distinguishes 'affect' from concepts such as internal perception (the individual's subjective experience of feelings) or mood (which refers to a more sustained emotional state that can last for hours or days). Additionally, irrational beliefs about reality do not fall under the definition of 'affect', as they pertain more to cognitive distortions rather than emotional expression. Hence, understanding affect is crucial for counselors in assessing and responding to clients' emotional states effectively.