Distinct roles of the ���Shared Pain���and ���Theory of Mind���networks in processing others��� emotional suffering (original) (raw)
AI-generated Abstract
Empathy involves recognizing and responding to the emotional states of others. This paper examines the distinct neural mechanisms operating in the processing of physical versus emotional suffering through functional brain imaging studies. The findings indicate that the 'Shared Pain' network, including the anterior insula and anterior cingulate cortex, is engaged during both physical pain and the observation of others in pain, whereas the 'Theory of Mind' network, encompassing regions such as the temporoparietal junction and ventromedial prefrontal cortex, is more related to the understanding of emotional suffering. Although there is an overlap in some brain areas, the study emphasizes the important distinction in how the brain processes different types of suffering, which has implications for understanding empathy and emotional support.
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