Recent advances in the crying literature

Experiences of emotional crying are thought to serve both inter- and intra-individual functions. Research investigating the inter-individual level looks at how crying acts as a signal to others, the message it sends and the social responses it elicits. Intra-individual level research focuses on whether crying is good for you and if episodes of crying reduce emotional intensity through cathartic mechanisms. In this article, I will introduce the major theories on adult crying, discuss current research and recent advancements in the emotional crying literature. I will also highlight areas where more research is needed to better understand emotional crying.