Personality and Arousal Correlates of Specific Galvanic Skin Responses

Abstract

Basal skin resistance (BSR) and galvanic skin responses (GSR) to five intensities of sound and light were recorded on four occasions in 32 student subjects (Ss). These occasions were assumed to include unfamiliarity and basal and real life stress conditions. All Ss completed the MMPI, California Personality Inventory, Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Clyde Mood Scale and Examination Anxiety Scale. GSR amplitude was greater under conditions of unfamiliarity, alertness (by electroencephalographic criteria), and higher intensities of stimulation in both stimulus modalities. It was not greater during the presumed stress period. High ego strength-high Barrier score Ss showed a greater GSR amplitude than low ego strength-low Barrier Ss. Test indices of anxiety generally were not related to GSR amplitude, nor were other personality and mood variables.

Gender differences between the emotions experienced and those identified in an urban space, based on heart rate variability

“…The measurement of arousal through observed fluctuations in cardiac rhythm is based on the intensity of the stimuli received by the participant (Roessler et al, 1966). In this study, the time that elapsed between each pulse beat (RR), which is known as the Heart Rate Variability (HRV), was geolocated.…”