Cognitive-Mediational Theory

In regards to stress, the theory suggests that what causes stress reaction is not the environmental “stressor” alone but also its significance as appraised by the person who encounters it. See also stress appraisal. Applied to the understanding of emotions, the theory suggests that how we feel is the result of how we interpret and evaluate (i.e. appraise) the situation. How we feel, therefore, is a result of cognitive appraisal processes. See also appraisal theory of emotion. Example: If you are unexpectedly called into your boss's office, interpreting it as an emergency rouses anxiety. Interpreting it as a meeting where you will be introduced to a new project instead increases anticipation.

Reference:

Lazarus, R. S. (1993). From psychological stress to emotions: A history of changing outlooks. Annual Review of Psychology, 44, 1-21. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev.ps.44.020193.000245