Program

Human social behavior is characterized by a dynamic interplay between inclusion and exclusion. While positive social interaction affects neural, endocrine and physiological synchrony, social rejection can further modify these processes, leading to distinct cognitive and emotional consequences and possibly clinical symptoms. Thus, understanding the mechanisms underlying these experiences is critical for advancing social neuroscience and preventing mental disorders. This symposium brings together cutting-edge research investigating the neural and physiological underpinnings of social exclusion and interaction by integrating findings from diverse experimental paradigms. Using diverse methods such as fMRI hyperscanning, physiological synchronization and sympathetic and endocrine analyses, these presentations provide new insights into how social connection and rejection influence brain function, autonomic and endocrine responses, and interpersonal dynamics in healthy and clinical samples.

Linn Kühl will talk about the link between emotional abuse in childhood and rejection sensitivity in later life. Nele Reinsberg will present data from two replication studies looking at social exclusion, including the potential protective effect of smartphones. Katja Wingenfeld will then demonstrate findings on the effects of social exclusion in patients with borderline personality disorder. Julia Koch will uncover the neural bases of interpersonal social processes including the dynamics of aggression. In the final presentation, Nina Volkmer will present the effects of social exclusion on physiological synchrony in a conformity paradigm.

In the discussion, we will consider theoretical and methodological advances, implications for mental health and social behavior, and future directions for interdisciplinary research on social exclusion and interaction.