Online chasing action recruits both mirror neuron and mentalizing systems: A pilot fNIRS study
Peng Zhang1, Shuyuan Feng1, Qihan Zhang1
1Academy of Psychology and Behavior, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin, China.
Acta Psychologica
|June 21, 2024
Summary
This study explored the brain activity during real-time chasing interactions using fNIRS. Chasing and following actions activated motor and mentalizing systems more than free movement, revealing neural insights into social skill development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Social Interaction Research
Background:
- Chasing is vital for social skill development.
- Neural basis of chasing from an observer's view is known, but the actor's perspective is under-researched.
- Understanding real-time chasing mechanisms is crucial for social cognition studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neural mechanisms underlying the real-time execution of chasing actions.
- To differentiate brain activation patterns during chasing, following, and free movement.
- To explore the roles of the motor network and mentalizing system in interactive chasing.
Main Methods:
- Employed functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) for brain activity measurement.
- Utilized a novel interactive game with participants (N=29) controlling a virtual character.
- Compared brain responses during chasing, following a partner's path, and free movement.
Main Results:
- Chasing and following actions significantly activated overlapping brain regions, including TPJ, mPFC, PMC, SI, and M1.
- Greater activation and functional connectivity were observed during chasing compared to following and free actions.
- Both the motor network (MNS) and mentalizing system (MS) were modulated by interactive chasing.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights the involvement of both MNS and MS in the real-time execution of chasing.
- Findings suggest distinct neural contributions of motor and social-cognitive systems during interactive pursuit.
- This research provides a foundation for further exploring the neural basis of social interactions like chasing.
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