Some people are more ticklish than others. These people burst into laughter even before your hands actually touch their body. This is why many scientists believe that tickling is a psychological phenomenon as well as a biological one.
Many scientists are studying the mechanism of tickling. “It concerns everything from body defense and the neurological program for play to the generation of the sense of self and other,” said Robert Provine, a neuroscientist at the University of Maryland.
There are two types of tickling: knismesis and gargalesis. Knismesis is closer to itchiness, and all animals experience this. However, gargalesis is a phenomenon exclusive to mammals. Gargalesis is a much stronger tickle that induces laughter in humans and high-pitched panting sounds in some animals. Gargalesis is often, but not always, associated with playing or joyful feelings.
However, that doesn’t necessarily mean that animals enjoy being tickled. Luca Melotti of the University of Bern said that while some people enjoy being tickled, others find it painful and even torturous. Likewise, we can never know for sure whether an animal’s reaction to being tickled indicates joy or fear.
Hanna Jeong Staff Reporter (email@example.com
1. How is gargalesis different from knismesis?
2. Why do scientists believe that tickling is a psychological phenomenon?
3. Do animals enjoy being tickled? Can we know for sure?
1. Are you easily tickled? Do you enjoy being tickled, or do you find it painful and uneasy?
2. Many pet owners struggle with the communication with their pet. Because Dogs or cats can't speak, and rarely give facial cues, we don't know if they like the way things are. Have you ever felt that you and your pet(or any other animal) truly connected on emotional or mental level?
3. According to the article, some mammals use tickling to show that they're being playful and friendly.
Can you think of things that we humans do to deliver a similar message? Something like a handshake, or a smile?