The Research Desk
Scientists at Yunnan Normal University found gratitude enhances cooperation between groups more strongly than pride.
Gratitude and pride in intergroup cooperation: Differentiated neural patterns revealed by fNIRS hyperscanning.
- Gratitude
- Positive emotion
Tao, Y., Zhu, Z., Yu, J., Pu, J., Ma, X.
In plain language
This study examines how gratitude and pride, two positive emotions, affect cooperation between groups. Using a technique called fNIRS hyperscanning, researchers observed the brain activity of female Chinese university students while they engaged in cooperative tasks. The study found that both gratitude and pride can enhance cooperation, but gratitude had a stronger unique association with cooperative behavior.
The research also identified different patterns of brain activation associated with these emotions, suggesting they play distinct roles in facilitating cooperation. However, the neural connectivity and synchrony between participants did not show significant results.
Key findings
- Gratitude and pride both increased intergroup cooperation compared to a neutral state.
- Gratitude showed a stronger unique association with cooperation than pride when both were considered together.
- Distinct brain activation patterns were observed for gratitude and pride, particularly in the TPJ and dlPFC regions.
- Functional-connectivity interactions did not show significant results after correction.
- Inter-brain synchrony interactions were not significant.
Why it matters
Understanding how gratitude and pride enhance cooperation can help improve intergroup relations, reducing prejudice and fostering harmonious interactions.
Try this today
Readers can cultivate gratitude and pride to enhance cooperation in group settings, whether in personal, educational, or professional environments, thereby improving group dynamics and reducing conflict.