Publication Date
Spring 3-23-2026
College
College of Sciences & Mathematics
Department
Psychological Sciences and Neurosciences, Department of
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Michael Oliver
Metadata/Fulltext
Metadata ONLY
Presentation Type
Talk/Oral
Summary
Previous research has shown that sensory experiences, especially touch, can impact physiological arousal, including changes in heart rate and skin conductance. Textures that are unfamiliar or unexpected may trigger a stronger autonomic response due to uncertainty. However, it is less understood about how different types of textures impact these physiological responses. This study aims to examine how different textures affect physiological responses in participants. Participants will place their hand into a divided box containing different textures while heart rate and skin conductance are recorded. We hypothesize that unexpected textures, such as a phantom hand, will lead to greater increases in heart rate and skin conductance compared to more familiar materials, such as a fluffy texture. We predict that unfamiliar textures will be associated with higher physiological responses, while softer, more familiar textures will be associated with lower responses. These findings could help us better understand how touch is linked to emotional and physiological reactions, especially in situations related to anxiety.
Recommended Citation
Stephens, Kristie; Supe, Anna; and Blythe, Zoe, "Touch, Surprise, and Arousal: Heart Rate and Skin Conductance Responses to Texture." (2026). SPARK Symposium Presentations. 902.
https://repository.belmont.edu/spark_presentations/902
