From what I can see, and I could be wrong, but to me having triggers means that something triggers an emotion.

I understand the way you break it down DH, but I can see Genetics point also. To me it would seem like the hearing the laughter triggers some kind of feeling, which sends the thoughts spiraling. The thoughts are probably much louder than whatever the feelings are at that point. And then the thoughts bring out the really strong emotions.

When you are doing therapy type work you are not just working on the thought process, but you are also working on your response to things, yes your thought response, but from what I can see also your first emotional response to things as well. Those quick triggers that get the thoughts in motion do seem to have an emotional tone to them.

Often I think our thoughts are directed by feelings, feeling like people are laughing at us, like they think they are better etc.. does seem to imply there are issues of feelings and emotions under them...

So even if you were totally fine at the moment, happy even.. whatever the trigger is, it is tied to some feelings and emotions, the thoughts seem instant and they pull out bigger emotions which are more obvious and stronger. But without the connection they might not be triggering at all.

I believe our thought processes are learned over time or from experiences, perception, a combo of things that all carry some emotion with them. Like a web all intertwined.

I am not sure if that is what Genetic is saying but that is how I am seeing it. It is kind of a messy deal, chicken or egg thing to try and sort out. All I really know is that when I had to correct many thought processes in and outside of therapy I had to work on the emotion ties I had to those thoughts, and where they were coming from. They were always tied to some deep seated emotions, feelings, experiences, and beliefs. Nothing was independent from each other. Like they all needed support from each other to be the back bone of the thoughts.