Harvard neuroscientists Jason Mitchell and Diana Tamir found that disclosing information about the self is intrinsically rewarding. In one study, Mitchell and Tamir hooked subjects up to brain scanners and asked them to share either their own opinions and attitudes {"I like snowboarding"} or the opinions and attitudes of another person {"He likes puppies"}. They found that sharing personal opinions activated the same brain circuits that respond to rewards like food and money. So talking about what you did this weekend might feel just as good as taking a delicious bite of double chocolate cake.
Research by Harvard neuroscientists Jason Mitchell and Diana Tamir reveals that sharing personal information can be highly rewarding on a neurological level. In their study, participants were connected to brain scanners while they shared their own opinions as opposed to those of others. The results indicated that self-disclosure activated brain circuits associated with pleasure and reward, similar to the enjoyment experienced when consuming food or receiving money.
This finding suggests that discussing personal thoughts or experiences, such as weekend activities, can evoke feelings of satisfaction comparable to indulging in a favorite dessert. It highlights the psychological benefits of connecting with others through self-disclosure, suggesting that our brains may be wired to find joy in sharing our individuality.
