Sensation seeking: Differential effects of relevant, novel stimulation on electrodermal activity

Abstract

Zuckerman's (1984) theory suggests that differences in brain catecholamines may cause high sensation seekers (HSS) to have more excitable central nervous systems and hence, display greater arousal then low sensation seekers (LSS). The present study attempted to assess the relationship of sensation seeking to electrodermal activity (EDA) under conditions of relevant, novel stimulation. EDA was measured in extreme groups of HSS and LSS who were exposed to tones and to multiple series of varied, relevant, novel stimuli presented as words, slides and video-taped scenes. Results showed larger initial responses in HSS than LSS under all types of stimulation. There was a similar group difference across all trials for relevant, novel word and video scene stimuli. HSS also had higher SCLs for words. Results were interpreted as supportive of hypothesized group differences under restricted conditions.