TouchNet

In this project, we investigate interpersonal touch behavior in everyday life. The aim is to create an international database containing over 100,000 touch events and to make it available to other researchers. To achieve this, we use the “Ecological Momentary Assessment” method, in which participants record on their smartphones when, where, how, with whom, and with what consequences they exchange touch. Particular attention is paid to effects on social interaction and stress reduction.

This everyday-life approach will be complemented by studies of neural mechanisms. Two fMRI studies will examine brain activity during touch in stressful contexts, and a hyperscanning study will investigate whether touch increases the synchronization of brain waves between two individuals.

Contact: Ilona Croy & Mathilde Gallistl & Yvonne Friedrich & Edgardo Silva & Melina-Elena Moutsia