File(s) under permanent embargo
Reduction of auditory input improves performance on the heartbeat tracking task, but does not necessarily enhance interoception
journal contribution
posted on 2023-09-01, 14:36 authored by Jennifer Todd, Farah Hina, Jane E. AspellPrevious research utilising a between-subjects design has indicated that the use of noise-dampening ear protectors might enhance interoceptive accuracy (IAcc). In the present study, we further examined this effect using a repeated-measures, within-participants design, and investigated potential mechanisms that might explain the effect. 50 participants completed the heartbeat tracking task (HTT) with and without the use of industrial ear protectors, in a counter-balanced order. Participants were asked to count the number of heartbeats occurring in five discrete time intervals of 25, 35, 45, 55 and 95 s, without feeling for a manual pulse. HTT scores were significantly higher when ear protectors were worn, and the improvement in performance was greatest for participants with lower baseline IAcc. The ear protectors were associated with significantly increased self-reported heartbeat audibility, task-related confidence and concentration, and decreased levels of distractibility. Heartbeat audibility was also correlated with HTT performance when the ear protectors were worn. Because the use of industrial ear defenders resulted in increased heartbeat audibility, this manipulation should not be used to assess causal hypotheses related to changes in IAcc. However, it may serve as a simple, non-invasive manipulation to assess the effects of ‘externalised’ interoceptive signals.
History
Refereed
- Yes
Volume
238Page range
621-629Publication title
Experimental Brain ResearchISSN
1432-1106External DOI
Publisher
SpringerFile version
- Accepted version
Language
- eng
Official URL
Legacy posted date
2020-01-27Legacy creation date
2020-01-27Legacy Faculty/School/Department
Faculty of Science & EngineeringUsage metrics
Categories
No categories selectedLicence
Exports
RefWorks
BibTeX
Ref. manager
Endnote
DataCite
NLM
DC