The scent of emotions: A systematic review of human intra‐ and interspecific chemical communication of emotions. Issue 5 (25th March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Calvi, Elisa; Quassolo, Umberto; Massaia, Massimiliano; Scandurra, Anna; D'Aniello, Biagio; D'Amelio, Patrizia
• Is Part Of: Brain and behavior. Volume 10:Issue 5(2020)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2020-03-25
• Subjects: behavior -- body odors -- chemosignals -- neuroendocrinology -- psychology; Neurology -- Periodicals; Neurosciences -- Periodicals; Psychology -- Periodicals; Psychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.8005
• DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1585
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2162-3279

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: The sense of olfaction has been considered of minor importance in human communication. In recent years, evidence has emerged that humans might be influenced by unconscious messages sent through chemosignals in body odors. Data concerning the ability of humans to recognize fear, maybe related to the evolutionary role of these emotions in the fight‐or‐flight reactions, are well known. Methods: To further understand the role of emotional chemosignals in mediating communication in humans and its influence on animal behaviors, we conducted a systematic literature review. Results: Chemosignals derived from axillary odors collected under a variety of emotional stimuli and sad tears in humans affect receivers' social interactions, danger detection and risk‐taking behavior, social aspects of eating, and performance under stressing conditions. In addition, beyond the fight‐or‐flight response, even the body odors of happiness can be perceived by others. Furthermore, human chemosignals can influence behaviors and stressful responses in animals, particularly dogs and horses, which may partially explain their special relationship with humans. Conclusion: Our review highlights the importance of chemosignaling in human intra‐ and interspecific interactions and suggests the need for further investigations, both in physiological conditions and in patients with psychiatric or neurodegenerative disorders. Abstract : In recent years, evidence has emerged that humans might be influenced by unconscious messages sent through chemosignals in body odors. This is a systematic review of the studies on communication of emotions by chemosignals in humans and between humans and other species. Human chemosignals of fear and happiness can affect a variety of receivers' behaviors in humans. Furthermore, human chemosignals can influence behaviors and stressful responses in animals.