# The Emotional Impact of Word Sounds on Human Perception
Written on
Chapter 1: The Connection Between Sound and Emotion
Recent research published in Psychological Science reveals that specific combinations of sounds in words can trigger varied emotional responses in our brains. Remarkably, even prior to the onset of the pandemic, the mere sound of the word “virus” elicited a measurable reaction.
The study titled “Affective Arousal Links Sounds to Meaning” delves into the association between auditory signals and visual shapes. Participants were shown two different shapes—one spiky and one round—and asked to identify which shape corresponded with the names "Kiki" and "Bouba." A significant majority linked the spiky shape to "Kiki" and the rounded shape to "Bouba," based purely on the phonetic qualities of the words.
This paragraph will result in an indented block of text, typically used for quoting other text.
Section 1.1: Cultural Consistency in Sound Associations
This classic matching experiment yields similar outcomes across diverse age groups and cultures, yet the underlying reasons remain elusive. Led by Junior Professor Morten Christiansen, the research team noted, “For most words, the relationship between sound and meaning appears arbitrary: The sound of a word does not typically tell us what it means. However, a growing body of work indicates that the sound of words can provide subtle hints about their meanings.”
In a bid to deepen their analysis, the researchers asked participants to evaluate both auditory and visual stimuli based on arousal levels, using data from eight previous studies that employed the matching effect. Their results demonstrated that spiky shapes and words like "Kiki" were highly stimulating, whereas rounded shapes and "Bouba" words were more calming.
Subsection 1.1.1: Expanding the Study
To validate their findings further, the team incorporated an additional nine hundred unrelated nonsensical words into their study. Their hypothesis held true: words with sharp, spiky sounds tend to be stimulating, while those with softer, bulbous sounds evoke relaxation.
Christiansen and his colleagues propose that this mapping of new vocabulary in the human brain is influenced by our emotional responses to both visual and auditory representations of words. They theorize that this connection may have facilitated the initial development of language among early humans by simplifying the association between words and their meanings.
Section 1.2: Implications for Storytelling
From an educator's perspective, these revelations are fascinating. Through spoken language, we can create vastly different emotional atmospheres using our tone, volume, and emphasis. Skilled actors understand when to accelerate their speech for dramatic impact, while parents reading bedtime stories know how to modulate their voices to help their children drift off to sleep.
Chapter 2: The Power of Word Sounds in Writing
As an author, recognizing the relationship between the sounds of certain words and the emotions they evoke in readers is a transformative insight. This understanding allows writers to infuse their narratives with deeper emotional layers.
In our ongoing quest to craft stories that are not only captivating but also fully immersive, this knowledge proves invaluable. It also reframes the editing process, guiding writers to select either stimulating or soothing words and phrases that seamlessly transition readers to the story's conclusion.
The first video, "Fools (Can't Help Falling in Love) ft. Sody & Sarcastic Sounds (Lyric Video)," explores the emotional nuances of love through its lyrics.
The second video, "Tears - Rush Acoustic (Cover) Tribute with Lyrics - Cathy Rankin and John Bronson," conveys deep feelings of nostalgia and longing through an acoustic rendition.
Words are undeniably powerful, dear readers. Let us use them with care and compassion.