Electrical skin response, also known as electrodermal activity (EDA), is a physiological measure indicating changes in the electrical conductance of the skin. It is a way to measure the autonomic nervous system's response to external stimuli, particularly emotional or psychological arousal. Electrical skin response is mainly influenced by the activity of sweat glands in the skin, which are controlled by the autonomic nervous system.
When a person experiences an emotional or psychological stimulus, such as excitement, fear, or stress, the autonomic nervous system responds by activating the sweat glands. This leads to an increase in the electrical conductance of the skin, as sweat is mostly composed of water and electrolytes, allowing electric current to flow more easily.
Electrical skin response can be measured using electrodes or sensors placed on the skin's surface, typically on the fingers or palms. These sensors detect the changes in electrical conductance and provide data for further analysis. The recorded response is usually represented as a graph showing fluctuations in electrical conductance over time.
This physiological measurement has been widely used in psychology and neuroscience research as an indicator of emotional arousal, stress levels, and cognitive processes. It has applications in various fields, including lie detection, psychotherapy, and biofeedback therapy. By monitoring electrical skin response, researchers and practitioners can gain insights into the individual's psychological and emotional states, contributing to a better understanding of human behavior.
