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Detection threshold for heart rate change in psychopaths, recidivists and normals

Author

William K. Volner Jr., University of the Pacific

Date of Award

1971

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Martin T. Gipson

First Committee Member

Kenneth L. Beauchamp

Second Committee Member

Wilfred M. Mitchell

Abstract

To test this a three part study would be required. First, it should be determined if there is a difference between the threshold for perception of increased heart rate in psychopaths and normals in order to see if the problem is an attentional one. If such a difference were not found the next step would be to compare psychopaths and normals on the strength of the cognitive fear reaction to S_arm the source of which in this case is increased heart rate. Finally, if results show no cognitive fear attached to the awareness of their increased heart rate, an attempt would be made to condition fear to the physiological stimulus of increased heart rate.

The following study was concerned with completion of the initial phase of this three part study.

Pages

28

Recommended Citation

Volner, William K. Jr.. (1971). Detection threshold for heart rate change in psychopaths, recidivists and normals. University of the Pacific, Thesis. https://scholarlycommons.pacific.edu/uop_etds/1745