Differences in the physiological reactions to sensory and ideational stimuli.

Abstract

This writer''s experimental work (published in Jour. Exper. Psychol. 1929) indicates that there are two processes distinguishable physiologically as well as psychologically which have frequently been designated as "emotion"[long dash]the immediate reflex response to "sensory" excitation and the response mediated by associative processes or ideas aroused by the stimulus. A comparison of the immediate reflex effect of momentary sensory stimuli with the effect mediated by associative or ideational processes shows that the former is relatively more effective in producing changes in peripheral mechanisms such as those of vaso-constriction, perspiration or the galvanic skin-reflex, while the latter is relatively more effective in increasing the cardiac activity, as indicated by blood pressure and pulse rate. His review of the literature supports these findings with the following exceptions. Disturbing ideas occasioning extreme unpleasantness or depression may slow the heart rate. Tastes and smells, though sensory stimuli, as a rule occasion increased rather than decreased pulse rate. Long continuation of sensory stimuli is likely to be accompanied by increased heart rate. Being frightened or extremely startled following sensory stimuli is likely to be accompanied by a momentary increase in pulse rate preceding the characteristic slowing. A bibliography of 76 titles is included.