The science behind human connections

Face to face or screen to screen? Which leaves you feeling more connected? In this episode Lisa and I discuss recent research showing that in-person interactions trigger increased neural activity compared to virtual interactions.
Lee Matthew Jackson

Lee Matthew Jackson

February 8, 2024

Face to face or screen to screen? Which leaves you feeling more connected? In this episode Lisa and I discuss recent research showing that in-person interactions trigger increased neural activity compared to virtual interactions.

We explore a study analysing the differences in brain activity and eye contact when people interacted live versus through video chat. The results indicate our minds are wired to be more engaged with physical proximity – but why is that so? Lisa and I unpack the limitations of current virtual platforms, including how camera angles and lack of body language cues play a role.

If a picture speaks a thousand words, being in the same room conveys infinitely more. But could webcam capabilities ever replicate the nuances of sharing physical space?

With insights from neuroscience and psychology, we get to the heart of what builds bonds between humans.

Video

We recorded this podcast live at Event Tech Live London, so if you’d prefer to watch you can do so on YouTube.

Key takeaways

From this conversation, here are the key elements that stood out to me:

  • Our brains are hardwired for in-person interactions – neural activity is higher when we are physically present with someone compared to video chat. Eye contact also plays a big role.
  • Limitations exist with current virtual platforms around replicating body language and the nuances of sharing physical space. Camera placement impacts ability to interpret those all important visual cues.
  • Steps can be taken to improve virtual event experiences, like using facilitators and polls to increase engagement in networking rooms. Also broadcasting virtual attendees on big screens at live events helps interaction for speakers and attendees.
  • Personality plays a part in how comfortable people feel networking virtually – introverts tend to find it more challenging than extroverts.
  • While virtual fatigue sets in quicker than being live, video chat has advantages over phone calls alone by enabling some visual interpretation. A layered approach using different modes of communication is best.

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Event Engine Podcast Artwork

Speakers

An image of our guest Lisa Schulteis

Lisa Schulteis

Electralime Marketing
Lee Matthew Jackson

Lee Matthew Jackson

Event Engine