Why do we say ‘ouch’?
updated the 24 June 2015 à 10:58Whenever we feel a sharp pain, instantly, we tend to make sounds that reflect the hurt. Ever wondered what the noise is for and where it stems from?
For a long time it was considered that making noise allowed one to signal to others that they’re in distress, thus possibly saving lives. However, in reality, there is (at least) one other reason. According to a study published by the Journal of Pain*, yelling a word or sound when you’ve just been hurt is an innate reaction.
The hypothesis (to be confirmed according to the authors of the study) is that vocalization and pain follows the same neural path to the brain. Hence, shouting would be a way to reduce pain by ‘breaking’ the nervous message. For instance, the researchers found that those who say ‘ouch’, ‘ow’ or some other sound, on average are able to withstand 30 more seconds with their hands in ice water than those who are forced to be silent. So no matter what is said, just remember to make some noise and let it all out.
* Source: “On the Importance of Being Vocal : Saying ‘Ow’ Improves Pain Tolerance”.
Maureen DIAMENT
