Effects of Aesthetic Chills on a Cardiac Signature of Emotionality.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Previous studies have shown that a cardiac signature of emotionality (referred to as EK, which can be computed from the standard 12 lead electrocardiogram, ECG), predicts inter-individual differences in the tendency to experience and express positive emotion. Here, we investigated whether EK values can be transiently modulated during stimulation with participant-selected music pieces and film scenes that elicit strongly positive emotion.

Methodology/principal findings

The phenomenon of aesthetic chills, as indicated by measurable piloerection on the forearm, was used to accurately locate moments of peak emotional responses during stimulation. From 58 healthy participants, continuous EK values, heart rate, and respiratory frequency were recorded during stimulation

SUBMITTER: Sumpf M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4470584 | biostudies-literature | 2015

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature