The phenomenon of feeling emotional when you see someone else cry is known as "emotional contagion" or "empathetic crying." It is a common and natural human response, and there are several psychological and physiological reasons behind it:
Empathy: As social beings, humans have evolved to be empathetic. When we see others in distress, our brain automatically activates the same areas that would be activated if we were experiencing that emotion ourselves. This neural resonance allows us to understand and share the feelings of others, which helps to foster social bonds and cooperation.
Mirror neurons: Mirror neurons are specialized brain cells that fire both when we perform an action and when we observe someone else performing the same action. They play a crucial role in empathy, as they allow us to mentally simulate the emotional experiences of others, including crying. When you witness someone crying, your mirror neurons may be triggering your emotional response as if you were crying yourself.
Social bonding: Empathetic crying is a way for humans to signal compassion and support to others. By showing that we understand and share their emotional pain, we communicate that we are there for them and are willing to provide comfort and assistance.
Emotional vulnerability: Seeing someone cry can also remind us of our own experiences of sadness or vulnerability. This can trigger a personal emotional response as we recall similar situations in our lives.
Social norms: In some cultures or social settings, expressing emotions like crying is considered acceptable and encouraged. When people around you openly display their emotions, it can make you more comfortable doing the same, leading to empathetic crying.
It's important to recognize that empathetic crying is a normal and healthy response. It shows that you are emotionally attuned to others and capable of forming meaningful connections. However, if you find that your emotional responses are overwhelming or interfering with your daily life, it might be beneficial to discuss your feelings with a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and support in managing emotions in a healthy way.