Neural correlates of receiving an apology

Interpersonal conflicts are a common element of many social relationships. One process that can rebuild social relationships is forgiveness. Behavioral studies indicate that the decision to forgive is strongly influenced by apologies. However, the neural bases of receiving an apology and forgiveness are still unknown. Hence, the aim of the present fMRI study was to investigate brain areas involved in active forgiveness of an ambiguous offense and receiving an apology. In a behavioral experiment participants were asked to make decisions, which were either positive or negative for the participants of the subsequen…