The Effect of Stressors on EEG Activation with Photic Stimulation

摘要

The effects of various stressors upon EEG activity and perceptual processes, under conditions of intermittent photic stimulation between frequencies of 4-18 cps were investigated. The various stressors combined with photic stimulation include pulsating white noise, both in phase and out of phase with photic stimulation, sleep deprivation, and pharmacologically produced respiratory alkalosis. Three aspects of the EEG response to photic stimulation were evaluated: degree of EEG activation; pattern of photic driving response; and level of alertness, as manifested by EEG changes during recording. The method developed and employed for converting the frequency analysis of EEG data from analog to a digital form suitable for computer processing is described. Scorces on the Witkin test of perceptual embeddedness and subjects' reports of sensations experienced during photic flicker were recorded, analyzed and related to the EEG findings. (Author)