Psychogalvanic reflex

Psychogalvanic reflex is a physiological phenomenon where the skin's electrical resistance changes in response to emotional stimuli. This reflex is also known as the Galvanic Skin Response (GSR), Electrodermal Response (EDR), Psychogalvanic Response (PGR), Skin Conductance Response (SCR), or Skin Conductance Level (SCL).

Overview

The psychogalvanic reflex is a change in the electrical properties of the skin caused by emotional stress, such as fear, anger, or surprise. The skin, under these conditions, becomes a better conductor of electricity, which can be measured by a polygraph machine or other similar devices. This change in skin conductance is thought to be caused by increased activity in the sweat glands, which are controlled by the sympathetic nervous system.

History

The psychogalvanic reflex was first described in the late 19th century by the French neurologist Charles Féré. He discovered that the skin's electrical resistance decreases in response to emotional stimuli. This discovery led to the development of the polygraph machine, which measures changes in skin conductance as an indicator of emotional arousal.

Applications

The psychogalvanic reflex is used in a variety of fields, including psychology, neuroscience, and forensic science. In psychology and neuroscience, it is used to study emotional responses and their physiological correlates. In forensic science, it is used in lie detection tests, although its accuracy and reliability in this context are controversial.

See also

• Polygraph
• Lie detection
• Emotion
• Stress
• Sympathetic nervous system