Reduction of auditory input improves performance on the heartbeat tracking task, but does not necessarily enhance interoception

Abstract

Word Count: 198Abstract Previous research utilising a between-subjects design indicates that the use of noisedampening ear-protectors might enhance interoceptive accuracy (IAcc). In the present study, we further examined this effect using a repeated-measures, within-participants design, and investigated potential mechanisms that might explain the effect. 50 participants completed the heartbeat tracking task (HTT) with and without the use of ear-protectors, in a counterbalanced order. Participants were asked to count the number of heartbeats occurring in five discrete time intervals of 25, 35, 45, 55 and 95 seconds, without feeling for a manual pulse.HTT scores were significantly higher when ear-protectors were worn, and the improvement in performance was greatest for participants with lower baseline IAcc. Participants also performed more consistently across the five trials when wearing the ear-protectors. The earprotectors were associated with significantly increased self-reported heartbeat audibility, concentration, and task-related confidence, and decreased levels of distractibility. Heartbeat audibility was also correlated with HTT performance when the ear-protectors were worn. The exteroceptive nature of the feedback from the ear-protectors therefore precludes the utility of this manipulation to assess causal hypotheses related to changes in IAcc. However, it may serve as a simple, non-invasive paradigm to assess the effects of externalised interoceptive signals. Highlights• Ear-protectors elicit an improvement in performance on the heartbeat tracking task • This improvement is greatest for participants with lower baseline accuracy • The improvement is associated with the auditory perception of the heartbeat • Prior use of ear-protectors did not result in later enhanced performance on the control condition without ear-protectors.