Touch as emotion regulation

TL;DR

This paper explores how interpersonal touch helps regulate emotions by affecting neurophysiological responses and communication of emotional states.

Contribution

The paper introduces four specific pathways through which touch functions as a form of emotion regulation.

Findings

Touch affects neurophysiological responses crucial for emotion regulation.

Touch communicates emotional states in interpersonal relationships.

Four distinct pathways through which touch supports emotion regulation are identified.

Abstract

Interpersonal touch is central to emotional well-being. Even though numerous studies demonstrate its efficacy in mitigating negative affect, emotional distress, and physical pain across human development and in diverse species, little has been offered regarding how touch functions as a form of emotion regulation. To address that gap, we first review how touch—enabled by an interpersonal tactile system—facilitates emotion regulation through its effects on neurophysiological responses. We then outline how touch communicates emotional states in interpersonal relationships that are vital to emotion regulation. Finally, we chart four pathways through which touch supports emotion regulation.