When feeling down, a warm pat on the back from a friend or family member can bring significant comfort.
In fact, comforting someone through physical touch requires technique. According to a recent report by the U.S. "Psychology Today" website, slow, rhythmic strokes yield the most pronounced psychological comfort effect.
Researchers at Sweden's University of Gothenburg recruited volunteers. When some participants were feeling low, others comforted them through strokes of varying frequencies and intensities. Simultaneously, MRI scans monitored brain activity in those receiving comfort.The results revealed that slow, firm, and consistent strokes activated the brain more significantly than quick, light touches or erratic strokes, indicating the strongest soothing effect.
Dr. Morrison, a study participant, noted that physical contact helps evoke empathy and compassion in people. However, the method must be appropriate; otherwise, it may have the opposite effect.