Feelings and Emotions On Both Sides of the Brain

Abstract

This chapter addresses the different roles of the left and right anterior insular cortex (AIC). It begins by noting evidence that the left AIC and the right AIC were activated asymmetrically in many of the functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies mentioned in the preceding chapters. The chapter then details two recent reviews that document a consistent pattern of asymmetric activation of the amygdala and insular cortex, as well as the gender differences that had obscured this pattern. The accumulated evidence from years of work in psychology shows that electroencephalographic activation in the left frontal hemisphere correlates with positive affect and approach motivation, and that activation in the right frontal hemisphere correlates with negative affect, cortisol release, sympathetic arousal, and avoidance motivation. The chapter also describes evidence that supports the opponent inhibition model and the nature of emotional imbalance.