A. Sanz et F. Villamarin, The role of perceived control in physiological reactivity: self-efficacy and incentive value as regulators of cardiovascular adjustment, BIOL PSYCH, 56(3), 2001, pp. 219-246
The aim of this study was to verify the influence of self-efficacy and ince
ntive value on cardiovascular reactivity. Ninety-six subjects were randomly
assigned to four experimental groups in each of which the self-efficacy (h
igh or low) and incentive value (high or low) were modified in relation to
a mental arithmetic task. Subjects were led to believe that failure in this
behaviour would result in the appearance of an aversive stimulus, Heart ra
te, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure and skin temperat
ure were all recorded throughout task performance, and at two given moments
prior to the task, in order to establish baseline values. Subjects with hi
gh self-efficacy experienced a smaller increase in heart rate and systolic
pressure, a greater increase in diastolic pressure, greater reduction in sk
in temperature and a reduction in pulse pressure during task performance. T
he effects were moderated by the incentive value in such a way that the eff
ects of self-efficacy on cardiovascular reactivity were stronger when the c
onsequences of task failure were perceived as highly relevant (high incenti
ve value). (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.