NeuroReal Series: Episode 6: The Brain Hears More Than You Say: The Neuroscience of Inclusive Language

Georgina Brown (hershe)
Dec 9
3 min read

Ever said something totally innocent, only to watch the mood in the room shift like a cold front?

Language is powerful — but not just for the reasons you think.

Because before a word is processed logically, it’s felt. Deep in the brain. Before we even understand it, we react to it.

Let’s unpack why your words — tone, phrasing, framing — matter more than ever, especially if you’re trying to lead with inclusion.

Your Amygdala is a Speed Reader

When you speak, your listener’s brain isn’t patiently waiting to analyse what you mean. It’s scanning for threat.

Words associated with conflict, criticism, exclusion, or historical trauma get flagged by the amygdala — the brain’s emotional alarm bell.

Once that alarm goes off? The prefrontal cortex, our reasoning centre, takes a back seat. It’s fight-flight-fawn-freeze time.

This means a poorly chosen phrase — even if unintended — can derail psychological safety in seconds.

The Broca’s and Wernicke’s Catch

The Broca’s area (language production) and Wernicke’s area (language comprehension) light up differently depending on tone, familiarity, and emotional resonance.

What does that mean for inclusion?

If someone is used to being excluded, they may perceive “neutral” language as hostile.
If someone trusts the speaker, even difficult feedback might feel constructive.
If the tone is condescending or performative, the brain responds with defensiveness or disengagement — no matter the words.

So yes, it’s how you say it. But also where the listener’s brain has been before.

Microaggressions: Tiny Words, Big Impact

Microaggressions — those subtle digs or assumptions that reflect bias — may seem minor to the speaker. But the brain of the receiver doesn’t see it that way.

Research shows repeated microaggressions activate the anterior cingulate cortex, involved in detecting social error and pain. Yes — pain. The brain treats exclusion as a threat to survival.

Inclusive language isn’t about being overly sensitive. It’s about recognising how our words land, neurologically.

Three NeuroNudges for Safer Language

1. Slow the Flow

When emotions are high, speech speeds up. That ramps up reactivity. Try deliberately slowing your pace and softening your tone. It signals safety to the listener’s nervous system.

2. Check the Mirror Neurons

Before speaking, ask yourself: What would I feel if someone said this to me in my lowest moment? Empathy activates your mirror neurons — and your inclusive instincts.

3. Repair, Don’t Retreat

If you get it wrong — and you will — don’t shut down. A quick “Thanks for letting me know, I’ll do better” activates trust-building circuits more than silence or defensiveness ever could.