Geer and Maisel (1972) Causes - Lack of control / measures - physiological measures

Question 1

Aim

Answer 1

To see if perceived control or actual control can reduce stress reactions to averse stimuli.

Question 2

Method

Answer 2

Lab experiment - participants shown photos of dead car crash victims. stress levels measured by GSR (Galvanic skin response) and heart rate through ECG monitoring.

Question 3

Procedure

Answer 3

Independent measures design - participants randomly assigned to 1 of 3 conditions.

1) given control over time they looked at the images, could terminate image and was told a tone would precede each new image
2) warned photos would be 60 secs apart, they would see the picture for 35 secs and a 10 sec warning tone would precede each photo. - no control
3) were told that from time to time they would see photos and hear tones but were not given timings or any control.

Participants put in sound proof booth and wired up to GSR and ECG machines. a baseline measure was taken and instructions read over intercom. photos lasted 35 secs.

Question 4

Results

Answer 4

ECG recordings discarded due to inaccuracy

Group 2 showed most stress
Group 1 showed least stress

Question 5

Conclusions

Answer 5

That having control over your environment can reduce stress responses.

Question 6

Participants

Answer 6

60 ny undergraduates