Nasty Words Cut Deeper Than you Think

In 10 seconds? A study has found that verbal insults can elicit a feeling akin to being ‘slapped in the face’. Electroencephalography (EEG) recordings indicated significant effects on P2 and late positive potential (LPP) amplitude when participants read insulting statements.

EEG? P2? LPP? Can I have some clarity? Electroencephalography (EEG) is a method of measuring brain waves. It’s advantageous to use in studies because it is non-invasive and can record activity in real-time. This allows the measuring of the exact brain waves that occur in response to specific external stimuli… like hurtful language. In this case, P2, a brain wave often associated with processes involving memory, language, and emotional attention; and LPP, a brain wave that can vary depending on the emotional intensity of a stimulus; have both been observed. This suggests that the various brain processes they relate to become more active when an insulting statement is read.