Modulating neural reactivity to visual reminders of a deceased close person by tactile social support
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| Year of publication | 2019 |
| Type | Conference abstract |
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| Description | We investigated neural responses to a picture of a deceased close person and if neural activity and functional connectivity are modulated by tactile social support from one’s romantic partner. By using the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) we found altered reactivity in various areas of the brain including the anterior insula and the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) in response to the personal picture compared to a non-personal picture. Supportive hand holding with the romantic partner, compared to being alone, reduced reactivity in the ACC and the cerebellum and provided subjectively experienced comfort. In order to separate the physical tactile support from the emotional effect of partner presence, we evaluated hand holding with the partner relative to a stranger, and found reduced reactivity in the anterior insula. Functional connectivity between the anterior insula and the ACC was reduced during partner’s tactile support, and the connectivity estimates were negatively related to attachment security, with stronger connectivity associated with weaker subjectively reported partner security. In summary, holding hands with one’s partner attenuates reactivity in emotional brain areas and reduces between-region connectivity. |