Columella Effect

The columella effect (from the Latin columella auris - auditory ossicle in birds) is a phenomenon in which birds experience distortion of sound perception due to an asymmetry in the size of the auditory ossicles of the columellae in the left and right ears.

This effect was first described in studies on owls. Scientists have discovered that in owls the size of the columella in the right ear is larger than in the left. This causes owls to perceive sounds on the right side as louder and more distinct than sounds on the left.

This asymmetry helps owls more accurately localize prey in space. Thanks to the columella effect, owls can detect the minimal rustles of rodents on the right and left in order to accurately determine the direction of the sound source. This gives owls an advantage when hunting in the dark.

In other bird species, the columella effect also plays an important role in spatial hearing and orientation. However, the degree of columellar asymmetry may vary depending on the lifestyle of a particular species. In owls, this effect is especially pronounced, which is due to their nocturnal lifestyle and the need for precise localization of prey.

Columella effect is a term used in psychology to describe the effect that occurs in a person when he hears his last name or first name. This effect is named after the Latin word columella, which means “ear bone” in birds.

The columella is an auditory organ that is located in the bird's ear and is responsible for the perception of sounds. When a person hears their first or last name, their brain may associate the word with a certain image or emotion. For example, if a person often hears his last name in a positive context, he may feel a sense of pride or confidence.

However, columella - the effect can be negative. If a person often hears their name in the context of criticism or judgment, it can cause feelings of uncertainty and fear.

In order to avoid the columella effect, it is important to learn to control our emotions and reactions to the words we hear. You can use cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, such as replacing negative thoughts and emotions with more positive ones. You can also try to change your reaction to criticism and condemnation, for example, perceive it as feedback and use it to improve your skills.

Overall, the columella effect is an important aspect of our psychological lives and can have both positive and negative effects on our mood and behavior. It is important to be able to manage this effect and use it to your advantage and not to its detriment.