Scientists have discovered how the human brain processes emotional content in words, offering new insights into language and emotion. Published in Cell Reports, the research reveals that ancient brain systems that evolved for survival now play a role in processing subtle emotional meanings in human language.
According to study leader Read Montague, common assumptions about brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin are challenged by their release in specific areas of the brain when processing emotional words. The team found that these chemicals fluctuate differently across multiple transmitter systems, rather than being handled by a single region or representing one emotion alone.
The research, which combined measurements from patients with brain procedures and animal models, provides strong evidence for its findings. The discovery opens new avenues for understanding how language affects emotions, decisions, and behavior at the biological level. This work could eventually lead to better understanding of mental health conditions and new therapeutic approaches.
Montague notes that even brain regions not typically associated with emotional or linguistic processing may still be privy to information about words’ emotional content. The study’s results highlight the intricate relationship between brain chemicals and language processing, offering a significant breakthrough in this field.
Source: https://scienceblog.com/553023/scientists-map-how-brain-chemicals-react-to-emotional-words