Lydia Denworth, writing in Scientific American, makes a startling discovery: when two people communicate effectively, their brain waves synchronize. Our thoughts and feelings align with the person we’re talking to. Scientists call it neural coupling, which happens when two people are engaged in a shared activity or experience. Neural coupling is present in the brain waves of people dancing, singing, or even just talking to each other. The implications could be profound for our understanding of communication and relationships.
Neurons in corresponding locations of the different brains fire simultaneously, creating matching patterns, like dancers moving together. Auditory and visual areas respond to shape, sound, and movement similarly. In contrast, higher-order brain areas behave similarly during more challenging tasks, such as making meaning out of something seen or heard. The experience of “being on the same wavelength” as another person is tangible and visible in the brain’s activity.
In neural coupling, brains work in sync, leading to several benefits, including improved communication, increased empathy, and a stronger sense of connection. Neural coupling can also help to reduce stress and anxiety.
You can do a few things to increase your neural coupling with someone. First, spend time together doing activities that you both enjoy. Second, make eye contact and focus on each other when talking. Third, listen attentively and respond in a way that shows you are understanding and engaged.
Neural coupling is a powerful tool that can help you to connect with others on a deeper level. By understanding how it works, you can use it to improve your relationships and build stronger bonds with the people in your life. People become more prosocial after synchronizing behaviors with others.
LYDIA DENWORTH, “BRAIN WAVES SYNCHRONIZE WHEN PEOPLE INTERACT,” SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN, JULY 1, 2023