Trait Affection and Asymmetry in the Anterior Brain

Abstract

The trait tendency to express affectionate messages is positively related to a range of physical health and well-being indicators. Thus far, the literature on affectionate communication has not examined this trait from a neurological perspective linked to such indicators. Using an approach-avoid framework of temperament, this study tests the notion that high-affection communicators have greater relative electrical activity in the left anterior cortex versus the right anterior cortex, as reflected in baseline electroencephalograph recordings. Results are consistent with the hypothesis that high-affection communicators have greater relative left activity than less affectionate communicators. Discussion centers on what conclusions can be drawn, and how research might be informed by linking trait affection to fundamental temperament reflected in anterior brain asymmetry.