# The science behind human connections

- Link: https://eventengine.net/science-behind-human-connections/
- Published: 2024-02-08T10:00:00+00:00
- Author: rondayvoo

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.

### 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.

### Connect with Lisa

Lisa is awesome! You can connect with her via:

 * [Website](https://electralime.com/)
 * [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisamschulteis/)