THE RELIABILITY OF SELF-DETERMINATIONS OF PULSE RATES.
Abstract
Of the known physiological responses which are related to stress, pulse rate is one of the most easily measured. Indeed, the procedure for obtaining the pulse rate is so simple that it is likely that most individuals can take their own pulse almost as accurately and reliably as a trained clinician. If this is the case, then this autonomic measure can be quickly and simply obtained on large groups. This paper considers the reliability of a group test of pulse rate in 122 naval aviation cadets who were measured in groups of from 24 to 64 men. Since each individual took his pulse twice each time the test was given, it was possible to compute the reliability of a single determination. The reliabilities for a group of 64 naval aviation cadets tested 5 different times compare favorably with the values generally reported in the literature. This procedure is simple enough to permit college level subjects to obtain their own pulse rate reliably. On the basis of these data, it appears to be worthwhile to determine to what extent this short, easily administered test may be useful for measuring the level of emotional arousal in groups. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 15, 1955
- Accession Number
- AD0467959
Entities
People
- Robert B. Voas
Organizations
- Naval Aerospace Medical Institute