Hyperscanning as a tool to study and support individuals in meaningful environments

Hyperscanning refers to measurements of brain signals (e.g. through EEG or fNIRS) or body signals (e.g. through heart rate or electrodermal activity) of multiple individuals simultaneously. It enables measuring physiological synchronization, the degree to which neurophysiological response across multiple individuals uniformly change, and other measures that quantify the interpersonal relation between signals. Such measures are promising to tackle complex questions. Analyzing physiological synchronization has for instance yielded broader understanding of neurophysiological processes related to relationships, it has helped uncovering attentional engagement with ecological, real-world stimuli and it has been proposed as a tool for monitoring the mental states of individuals in a group. Hyperscanning may provide insight in identifying cognitive and affective processes underlying successful teams in action, it may identify attentionally engaging moments in educational settings or it may streamline briefings of large groups of personnel.

Despite its promise, hyperscanning measures are not ready for use as of yet. What do different types of interpersonal associations between different types of signals exactly signify? Which measures should be used in which context? How can we harness them for the benefit of the user? Can we demonstrate such benefit?

This research topic aims to showcase research that supports hyperscanning as a tool to study and support individuals in meaningful environments. We invite researchers to submit their work that contributes to this goal. We especially encourage studies focusing on multiple modalities (including behavior), the use of wearable sensors or novel methodologies especially suited for out-of-lab settings.

The research topic is connected to the conference ‘Methods in Mobile EEG’ which takes place April 13-15, 2025 in Belgrade, Serbia. Attendees of this conference are invited by the editors to submit a manuscript about their presentation to this Research Topic.