THE PSYCHO-GALVANIC REFLEX: A COMPARISON OF A.C. SKIN RESISTANCE AND SKIN POTENTIAL CHANGES

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Abstract
Apparent alternating current skin resistance and skin potential of a single reacting area were continuously and simultaneously recorded under a variety of conditions. Strongly hypertonic electrode jelly decreased skin resistance, which dropped on stimulation. The active electrode was always negative with respect to the inactive area. "Spontaneous" fluctuations in resistance, resembling responses to stimuli, occurred without perceptible changes in skin potential. Galvanic current eliminated or reduced the potential response but did not affect the resistance response. Local application of atropine by iontophoresis caused disappearance of both potential and resistance responses which are probably both cholinergically mediated although dependent on different mechanisms.