Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2025
04:27
Using Facial Electromyography to Assess Facial Muscle Reactions to Experienced and Observed Affective Touch in Humans
Published on: March 15, 2019
11.1K
Refraining from spontaneous face touch is linked to personality traits, reduced memory performance and EEG changes
Kevin H G Butz1, Stephanie M Mueller1, Jente L Spille1
1Haptic Research Laboratory, Paul Flechsig Institute - Centre of Neuropathology and Brain Research, University of Leipzig, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
Scientific Reports
|June 25, 2024
Summary
Refraining from spontaneous face touching (sFST) impacts brain activity and memory. Non-adherence is linked to personality traits and poorer memory recall, suggesting sFST
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Spontaneous face touching (sFST) is theorized to aid cognitive-emotional regulation.
- Pandemic guidelines recommended avoiding face touching, but its effects and links to personal traits were unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neurophysiological and cognitive consequences of refraining from face touching.
- To explore the relationship between personal attributes and adherence to face-touching avoidance.
Main Methods:
- Ninety participants completed personality, anxiety, and ADHD screenings.
- Participants performed memory tasks, with some instructed to avoid face touching.
- Video, EMG, and EEG data were recorded to analyze face touches and neurophysiology.
Main Results:
- Refraining from face touching increased beta-power in sensorimotor and frontal brain regions.
- Non-adherence to face-touching avoidance correlated with lower Conscientiousness and higher ADHD scores.
- Decreased memory performance was observed in participants who non-adherently touched their face.
Conclusions:
- Avoiding face touching induces neurophysiological changes and can impair memory in some individuals.
- Personal attributes, such as lower Conscientiousness and higher ADHD scores, are associated with non-adherence.
- These findings support the role of spontaneous face touching in cognitive and emotional regulation beyond sensorimotor functions.
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