EFFECTS OF ASYMMETRICAL HEMISPHERIC ACTIVATION ON APPROACH AND WITHDRAWAL RESPONSES

The hypothesis (R. J. Davidson, 1992; M. Kinsbourne, 1978) that hemisp heric lateralization of positive and negative emotions reflects the or ganization of approach and withdrawal responses was examined. Left-sid ed facial contractions, which activate the right hemisphere and induce negative emotions, facilitated finger extension (a withdrawal respons e), and right-sided contractions, which activate the left hemisphere a nd induce positive emotions, facilitated finger flexion (an approach r esponse) and retarded the finger extension (withdrawal) response. Cont ractions influenced only the ipsilateral finger (controlled by the act ivated hemisphere). Facilitation results were consistent with the hypo thesis. Retardation of withdrawal may reflect reciprocal inhibition be tween responses or, greater susceptibility of withdrawal to emotional variables.