The term "affect" refers to the experience of feeling or emotion. It is often used in psychology to describe the observable expression of emotions, such as happiness, sadness, or anger. Affect can be seen in facial expressions, body language, and tone of voice, providing insight into a person's emotional state. In clinical settings, mental health professionals assess a patient's affect to understand their emotional well-being. For example, a person with depression may exhibit a flat affect, showing little emotional expression, while someone experiencing mania might display an exaggerated affect, characterized by intense emotions and energy.