Induction and Measurement of Basic Emotions in Subjects and the Influence of Multisensory Stimuli

In this study we are assessing whether we can induce positive and negative emotions in subjects as reflected in measures of the autonomic nervous system by administering pleasant and unpleasant odours. Subsequently we will assess whether a combination of visual, gustatory and olfactory stimulation results in stronger autonomic (emotional) responses as compared to either stimulus alone. We also want to assess whether there is a correlation between self reported emotional states and measures of autonomic nervous system reactivity. Four measurements of the autonomic nervous system are used: 1) the startle reflex, an eye blink reflex that is induced by an acoustic probe 2) the post auricular reflex, also induced by an acoustic probe 3) the skin conductance response and 4) the heart rate. They are chosen because of their differential susceptibility to habituation and positive and negative emotional states [1]. Next to the autonomic nervous system measurements an emotional state will be measured by self reports. Author Keywords