Emotional stimuli may influence standing balance, but findings vary
A systematic review linked unpleasant stimuli with larger postural shifts in several studies, although inconsistent statistical reporting makes the pattern difficult to judge.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
Emotional stimuli may influence how people control their posture while standing, but this review found inconsistent evidence. Unpleasant stimuli often accompanied larger balance-related movements, while responses to pleasant stimuli were less pronounced. Differences between people and study methods complicate interpretation, and the abstract does not establish that emotional exposure changes fall risk or improves balance.
The abstract says statistical support was reported inconsistently and methods varied. This abstract-based summary therefore cannot determine a reliable effect size or whether observed postural shifts matter in everyday activities.
What researchers observed
Several studies described larger movements of the center of pressure during unpleasant stimulation, especially in the front-to-back direction. That measurement concerns postural control; the abstract does not supply a common numerical estimate across the included studies.
Why responses differed
Responses varied with age, gender and anxiety levels. Findings also conflicted about a freezing response, and the reviewers suggested that differences in methods and cultural context could help explain why studies did not point in the same direction.
The original publication
The effect of emotional stimuli on static postural stability in adults: A systematic review.
Benesova D, Cepicka L, Kovarova L et al.
Gait Posture · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41161007
- Record checked
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