Emotional lateralization

Emotional lateralization refers to the asymmetrical representation or processing of emotions in the brain. It is a subfield of lateralization of brain function, suggesting that the two hemispheres of the brain are functionally different and that each is specialized for some mental processes.

Overview

The concept of emotional lateralization proposes that the brain's two hemispheres are not identical in function. The left hemisphere is typically associated with positive emotions such as happiness and excitement, while the right hemisphere is typically associated with negative emotions such as sadness and anger.

Theories

Right Hemisphere Theory

The Right Hemisphere Theory suggests that the right hemisphere is dominant in the processing of all emotions. This theory is supported by research showing that patients with right hemisphere damage often have difficulty in recognizing and expressing emotions.

Valence Theory

The Valence Theory proposes that the left hemisphere is involved in processing positive emotions, while the right hemisphere is involved in processing negative emotions. This theory is supported by studies showing that activation of the left hemisphere is associated with positive emotional responses, while activation of the right hemisphere is associated with negative emotional responses.

Evidence

Evidence for emotional lateralization comes from a variety of sources, including studies of brain-damaged patients, neuroimaging studies, and studies using dichotic listening tasks. These studies have provided evidence supporting both the Right Hemisphere Theory and the Valence Theory.

Implications

Understanding emotional lateralization has important implications for the treatment of emotional disorders. For example, treatments that target the right hemisphere may be more effective for disorders associated with negative emotions, such as depression and anxiety.

See also

• Lateralization of brain function
• Emotion
• Brain
• Neuroscience

References

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Emotional lateralization

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  Neuroanatomical Basis for Emotional Lateralization