The role of awe on self-referential processing: AN EEG oscillation study

This study aimed to investigate the effects of awe on self-referential processing (SRP) at the electrophysiological level. Participants were exposed to awe-inducing or neutral video clips, followed by semantic, somatic, attention, and meditation tasks. EEG was recorded throughout the experiment to analyze peak frequency and peak magnitude in the alpha (8-13 Hz) and theta (4-7 Hz) bands. Additionally, heart rate (ECG) was measured to validate the successful induction of awe. Thirty-one healthy adults viewed three awe-inducing and three neutral videos, each followed by the corresponding tasks. Participants also completed the Self-Size Scale before and after each block to report perceived changes in self-representation. Results showed no significant differences in perceived self-size, heart rate, or subjective ratings of attention and pleasantness between awe and control conditions. EEG analyses revealed robust regional and hemispheric patterns in alpha and theta activity; however, these reflected general task engagement rather than awe-specific modulation. Likewise, grouping participants into "Smaller Self," "No Change," and "Bigger Self" categories did not yield significant differences in neural measures. These findings highlight the methodological challenges of reliably eliciting awe in laboratory settings using video-based induction. Factors such as stimulus duration, repetition, and reduced ecological validity may have limited the strength of the awe experience. Nevertheless, the study provides a comprehensive paradigm integrating EEG with validation via ECG, underscoring the complexities of awe research. Its contribution lies in offering an interdisciplinary perspective on self-referential processing and establishing a methodological foundation for future research.