Record Details
Neural and Behavioral Components of Moral Elevation
ScholarsArchive at Oregon State University
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Title | Neural and Behavioral Components of Moral Elevation |
| Names |
Lewis, Blanca M.
(creator) Saturn, Sarina R. (advisor) |
| Date Issued | 2014-07-11 (iso8601) |
| Note | Honors Bachelor of Arts (HBA) |
| Abstract | Moral elevation, or elevation, is a prosocial emotional state elicited by witnessing displays of altruism or moral beauty. For this study, medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and autonomic physiology activity were monitored during elevation induction. We hypothesized that changes would occur in mPFC activity during elevation and that these would significantly relate to feelings, cognitions, and physiological changes that occur during elevation. Our data shows that deactivation of the mPFC is related to feelings and cognitions associated with elevation, including admiration and a desire to help others. Furthermore, participants who appeared more interested during elevation induction reported more sympathy/compassion and an increase in heart rate. In addition, physiological assessment found that appearing interested is significantly associated with an increase in parasympathetic activity. Altogether, these results add to the body of knowledge of the relationship between the body and the brain during elevation. |
| Genre | Thesis |
| Topic | Elevation |
| Identifier | http://hdl.handle.net/1957/52430 |
