A Proposal for Open Validation of the Core Emotion Framework (CEF): A Structural-Constructivist Model for Emotional Regulation and Psychological Flourishing

The Core Emotion Framework (CEF) is a groundbreaking structural-constructivist model of human psychology designed to provide a universal, actionable blueprint for emotional regulation and optimized functioning. It strategically bridges the historic divide in affective science—integrating classical theories of innate emotion (Ekman) with modern constructivist principles (Barrett)—by asserting that complex human emotions are constructed from a finite architecture of ten irreducible "primal powers," or Core Emotions, which function as the structural elements of the psyche. These capacities are systematically organized across three functional centers—Head (Cognitive Focus), Heart (Relational Flow), and Gut (Action)—to guide a defined, top-down sequence for healthy psychological flow. Crucially, the CEF posits that psychological health is achieved through the cultivation of Emotional Flexibility, which involves mastering the dynamic balance between the foundational polarities of Agency (self-assertion) and Yielding (connection), thereby addressing psychological distress rooted in Emotional Rigidity (the pathological fusion of elements). While currently a powerful theoretical synthesis, the CEF is committing to an unparalleled, fully open validation process through collaboration with the Open Science Framework (OSF). This collaboration is essential to transition the framework from theory to empirically grounded practice, utilizing OSF infrastructure to develop standardized, open-source psychometric measures, pre-register all hypotheses and validation protocols, and adhere to the rigorous Transparency and Openness Promotion (TOP) Guidelines. The CEF is grounded in established concepts, drawing parallels between Core Emotions like Boosting and Jaak Panksepp's SEEKING system, and is positioned to become an exemplary model for the open, verifiable validation of complex structural theories in cognitive science, ensuring the reliability of its practical applications across personal development, leadership, and therapeutic contexts.