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Popping sealed air-capsules to reduce stress.
1Psychology Department, Western New England College, Springfield, MA 01119.
Psychological Reports
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Popping bubble wrap, a simple tactile activity, was found to reduce stress in undergraduate students. Participants felt more energized, less tired, and calmer after this stress-relief exercise.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Stress Management
Background:
- Stress and anxiety are prevalent among undergraduate students.
- Existing stress-reduction techniques may have limitations, including potential paradoxical anxiety effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the stress-reducing potential of tactile manipulation, specifically popping sealed plastic air-capsules.
- To evaluate the effects of this activity on student well-being.
Main Methods:
- Thirty undergraduate students participated in the study.
- Participants engaged in popping sealed plastic air-capsules.
- Four dependent measures were used to assess stress levels and well-being.
Main Results:
- Three of the four dependent measures showed significant changes.
- Participants reported feeling significantly more energized.
- Participants reported feeling significantly less tired and more calm after popping the capsules.
Conclusions:
- Tactile manipulation through popping air-capsules is a potentially effective stress-reducing technique.
- This method requires minimal skill and training, making it easily accessible.
- It may offer an alternative to relaxation techniques that can induce anxiety in some individuals.