Interpersonal neural synchrony and mental disorders: unlocking potential pathways for clinical interventions

Abstract

IntroductionInterpersonal synchronization involves the alignment of behavioral, affective, physiological, and brain states during social interactions. It facilitates empathy, emotion regulation, and prosocial commitment. Mental disorders characterized by social interaction dysfunction, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), and Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD), often exhibit atypical synchronization with others across multiple levels. With the introduction of the “second-person” neuroscience perspective, our understanding of interpersonal neural synchronization (INS) has improved, however, so far, it has hardly impacted the development of novel therapeutic interventions.MethodsTo evaluate the potential of INS-based treatments for mental disorders, we performed two systematic literature searches identifying studies that directly target INS through neurofeedback (12 publications; 9 independent studies) or brain stimulation techniques (7 studies), following PRISMA guidelines. In addition, we narratively review indirect INS manipulations through behavioral, biofeedback, or hormonal interventions. We discuss the potential of such treatments for ASD, RAD, and SAD and using a systematic database search assess the acceptability of neurofeedback (4 studies) and neurostimulation (4 studies) in patients with social dysfunction.ResultsAlthough behavioral approaches, such as engaging in eye contact or cooperative actions, have been shown to be associated with increased INS, little is known about potential long-term consequences of such interventions. Few proof-of-concept studies have utilized brain stimulation techniques, like transcranial direct current stimulation or INS-based neurofeedback, showing feasibility and preliminary evidence that such interventions can boost behavioral synchrony and social connectedness. Yet, optimal brain stimulation protocols and neurofeedback parameters are still undefined. For ASD, RAD, or SAD, so far no randomized controlled trial has proven the efficacy of direct INS-based intervention techniques, although in general brain stimulation and neurofeedback methods seem to be well accepted in these patient groups.DiscussionSignificant work remains to translate INS-based manipulations into effective treatments for social interaction disorders. Future research should focus on mechanistic insights into INS, technological advancements, and rigorous design standards. Furthermore, it will be key to compare interventions directly targeting INS to those targeting other modalities of synchrony as well as to define optimal target dyads and target synchrony states in clinical interventions.

Validating the reproducibility of a low-cost single-channel fNIRS device across hierarchical cognitive tasks

“…Finally, while HbO provides valuable insights into cerebral oxygenation, the absence of deoxyhemoglobin (HbR) measurements presents a limitation, as it offers complementary information on cerebral blood volume and oxygen extraction. The current limitation in reporting HbR is due to technical constraints; however, we are actively working to address this in our forthcoming research, as detailed in Konrad et al (2024) . Acknowledging the intricacies presented by this pilot study, we advocate for the adoption of preregistration in subsequent research endeavors.…”

“…The integration of fNIRS into everyday neuroscience research and its application across various cognitive tasks have been highlighted as the next frontier in expanding the technology’s reach and impact ( von Lühmann et al, 2021 ; Yücel et al, 2021 ; Liu et al, 2022 ). Recent advancements in mobile fNIRS technology present promising avenues for neurofeedback training and hyperscanning applications, as discussed in Konrad et al (2024) and Klein et al (2023) . These developments are pivotal as they facilitate the deployment of fNIRS in dynamic, real-world settings, extending its utility beyond conventional laboratory environments.…”

Editorial: Translational applications of neuroimaging

“…The review concludes with recommendations for the future development of the locomotion imaging research field. Konrad et al ( 2023 ) performed a review of neurostimulation and neuroimaging methods used to promote Interpersonal Neural Synchrony, which is considered a key facilitator of empathy, emotion regulation, and prosocial commitment. The review highlights the potential of hyperscanning to investigate neural mechanisms of impaired social interactions in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), and Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD).…”

Translational Applications of Neuroimaging

“…The review concludes with recommendations for the future development of the locomotion imaging research field. Konrad et al (2023) performed a review of neurostimulation and neuroimaging methods used to promote Interpersonal Neural Synchrony, which is considered a key facilitator of empathy, emotion regulation, and prosocial commitment. The review highlights the potential of hyperscanning to investigate neural mechanisms of impaired social interactions in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD), and Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD).…”