Investigating the neural dynamics of social interactions through hyperscanning technology

Social interaction is a fundamental aspect of human behavior, with functional imaging technology providing new insights into its complexities. Hyperscanning is a cutting-edge technique that enables the simultaneous monitoring of brain activity in multiple individuals, enhancing understanding of intra and inter-brain processes that underlie social interactions. This technology opens doors to studying complex neural correlates of social behaviors and the intricate dynamics of human connection. Current research has illuminated neural mechanisms that underpin social coordination, empathy, and group dynamics, offering insights into typical and atypical social functioning.

This Research Topic aims to explore the myriad applications of hyperscanning in understanding the neural dynamics of social interactions. By delving into behavioral synchronization, empathy, and group dynamics, we seek to uncover the neurophysiological mechanisms that facilitate seamless social exchanges. Additionally, this topic aims to address gaps in knowledge such as identifying biomarkers for social interactions and developing standardized methodologies. Through these efforts, researchers can enhance interventions and therapeutic approaches for mental disorders characterized by social deficits.

To gather further insights into the neural mechanisms of social interactions, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

Neural correlates of social coordination
Biomarkers for social interaction
Methodological advancements in hyperscanning
Social interaction in neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders
Multi-person neuroscience techniques
We seek diverse contributions, including innovative applications, methodological advancements, and studies from psychological, physiological, or neurophysical perspectives. Researchers are invited to spotlight breakthroughs in hyperscanning and its application in understanding social dynamics, with the aim of advancing human social neuroscience.

We welcome original research, review articles, theoretical perspectives, and methodological papers for inclusion in this collection. If you are passionate about pushing the boundaries of social neuroscience, we want to hear from you. Submit your work and be part of the conversation shaping the future of cognition.


In addition to serving as a Guest Research Associate at Hokkaido University and HEC Montreal, Topic Editor Jared Boasen holds the position of Director of Innovation at LRDG in Montreal. Dr. Boasen is also the inventor of a digital cognitive function assessment system called Axon, which is currently pending a patent. The other Topic Editors declare no competing interests regarding the Research Topic.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Conceptual Analysis
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Clinical Trial
• Community Case Study
• Conceptual Analysis
• Curriculum, Instruction, and Pedagogy
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• FAIR² DATA Direct Submission
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Policy Brief
• Registered Report
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: hyperscanning, social cognition, social neuroscience, methodologies, social interaction

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.