Female tears may hold a unique formula for calming male aggression, according to research. In an experiment where male participants were provoked, sniffing female tears had a notable impact compared to a saline solution. The study revealed that the scent of female tears significantly decreased brain activity associated with aggressive behavior in men.
Female tears contain chemosignals
A team of researchers led by Shani Agron at the Weizmann Institute of Science, highlights previous research indicating that the scent of female tears inhibits aggression in male lab rats, a form of chemosignaling. While widespread in animals, its significance in humans remains a puzzling mystery for scientists.
Researchers investigated if men and women produce odorless chemicals in tears, analyzing their impact on the brain. They conducted a study with men, using competitive games designed to induce aggression and suspicion of cheating. Participants were given the chance for revenge by causing financial loss to their perceived cheating opponents.
In a study, men exposed to the scent of women’s emotional tears experienced a significant 43.7% reduction in aggression and revenge desires. The research involved MRI scans, revealing decreased activity in the prefrontal cortex and anterior insula, associated with aggressive behavior. Olfactory receptors in the nose were found to be activated by tear substances, despite their lack of noticeable odor. This suggests a unique impact of emotional tears on male behavior and brain activity, shedding light on the connection between scent, emotions, and aggression.
Human tears have chemical signal that inhibits male aggression
Human tears, like those in mice, were discovered to contain a chemical signal inhibiting aggression in conspecific males. This challenges the belief that emotional tears are exclusive to humans, as stated by the researchers in a press release.
The discovery provides new insights into human social behavior and emotional communication, challenging previous notions about the purpose of tears. Contrary to Charles Darwin’s view that emotional tearing has no significant function beyond eye maintenance, this study suggests that tears may play a crucial role in social signaling and emotional regulation. The findings have been published in the journal PLOS Biology.
