Identifying Emotions on the Basis of Neural Activation

PLoS One. 2013 Jun 19;8(6):e66032. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0066032. Print 2013.

Abstract

We attempt to determine the discriminability and organization of neural activation corresponding to the experience of specific emotions. Method actors were asked to self-induce nine emotional states (anger, disgust, envy, fear, happiness, lust, pride, sadness, and shame) while in an fMRI scanner. Using a Gaussian Naïve Bayes pooled variance classifier, we demonstrate the ability to identify specific emotions experienced by an individual at well over chance accuracy on the basis of: 1) neural activation of the same individual in other trials, 2) neural activation of other individuals who experienced similar trials, and 3) neural activation of the same individual to a qualitatively different type of emotion induction. Factor analysis identified valence, arousal, sociality, and lust as dimensions underlying the activation patterns. These results suggest a structure for neural representations of emotion and inform theories of emotional processing.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Bayes Theorem
  • Brain / diagnostic imaging*
  • Brain / physiology
  • Emotions / physiology*
  • Factor Analysis, Statistical
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Male
  • Neurons / physiology*
  • Young Adult