An approach to physiological reactivity in terms of a body-image schema.

Abstract

"We have suggested...that patterns of physiological reactivity may be meaningfully viewed in terms of a contrast between body-exterior response and body-interior response. More specifically, it was postulated that those who, in their body image, emphasize the armored thickness of their body exterior would show relatively greater physiological reactivity in their exterior body layers (skin and muscle) than in their body interior. The converse of this was postulated to hold true for individuals who conceive of their body-image boundaries as permeable and easily penetrated. A range of literature has been reviewed which seems to lend support to such postulations.".