Coping style as a factor in psychophysiological response to a tension-arousing film.

Abstract

3 groups of Ss, selected on the basis of perceptual defense patterns (avoiders, sensitizers, and nonspecific defenders—NSD) were exposed twice to a tension arousing film (Wages of Fear) at 1-wk. intervals. Continuous recording reactivity of 4 psychophysiological variables was done throughout both film viewings. On initial showing, the avoider and sensitizer groups showed markedly less skin-conductance response than the NSD group. No differences were found on the other psychophysiological variables on initial showing. On the 2nd showing avoiders and sensitizers reacted more intensely in skin conductance than they did initially while the NSD group showed a marked attenuation in skin-conductance response on the 2nd viewing. The data for heart rate did not parallel the skin-conductance data as the avoidance group showed less heart-rate response on 2nd showing while the NSD group showed greater heart-rate. When the groups with clear defensive patterns (avoiders and sensitizers) were separated into high-and low-anxiety groups, interactions between coping style and anxiety level were noted on finger pulse volume but not for skin conductance. The question of patterning of response to threat and its relationship to optimum psychological functioning is discussed. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)