Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 9, 2026
08:09
Psychophysiological Assessment of the Effectiveness of Emotion Regulation Strategies in Childhood
Published on: February 11, 2017
Asthma self-efficacy, high frequency heart rate variability, and airflow obstruction during negative affect in daily
Tavis S Campbell1, Kim L Lavoie, Simon L Bacon
1Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada T2N 1N4. t.s.campbell@ucalgary.ca
Summary
Emotional stress worsens asthma by increasing parasympathetic nervous system activity, especially in those with low asthma self-efficacy. This leads to reduced lung function (PEFR) during negative emotional states.
Area of Science:
- Psychoneuroimmunology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Autonomic Nervous System Research
Background:
- Emotional stress is a known asthma trigger, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear.
- Stress may affect asthma via behavioral pathways (e.g., self-care) or physiological pathways (e.g., parasympathetic activity).
- The interaction between these pathways in daily life asthma exacerbation is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between asthma self-efficacy, emotional stress, and physiological responses.
- To examine how negative affect and physical activity influence airflow obstruction and autonomic nervous system activity in asthma patients.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-three mild to moderate asthma patients completed the Asthma Self-Efficacy Scale.
- A 15-hour ambulatory assessment monitored high frequency heart rate variability (HFHRV) and peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR).
- Participants completed daily diaries on physical activities and emotional affect.
Main Results:
- Lower asthma self-efficacy was linked to higher HFHRV (parasympathetic activity) and reduced PEFR during negative affect.
- Physical activity decreased HFHRV regardless of asthma self-efficacy levels.
- These associations were observed during real-life, daily activities.
Conclusions:
- Low asthma self-efficacy may heighten the physiological stress response in asthma patients.
- Increased parasympathetic activity during negative affect correlates with airflow obstruction in individuals with lower self-efficacy.
- Findings highlight the interplay between psychological factors and physiological responses in asthma exacerbation.
Related Concept Videos
01:13Asthma III: Clinical Manifestations
Asthma presents with a characteristic pattern of episodic respiratory symptoms that reflect underlying airway inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and mucus hypersecretion. Although severity varies among individuals, certain clinical manifestations are considered hallmarks of the disorder and often guide diagnosis and assessment.Respiratory SymptomsA persistent cough is one of the most common early features of asthma. It is frequently dry and tends to worsen at night or in the early morning,...
01:24Asthma-III: Symptoms and Complications
Asthma, a common chronic respiratory condition, is classified considering the frequency and severity of symptoms alongside lung function impairment. Understanding this classification is essential for appropriate treatment and management. Here's a detailed look at the classification of asthma and its clinical features and complications:
Classification of Asthma
Classification of Asthma
01:28Asthma I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways characterized by variable airflow obstruction and heightened bronchial responsiveness to a wide range of triggers. The underlying inflammation leads to airway swelling, mucus hypersecretion, and smooth muscle constriction, all of which narrow the airway lumen and impede airflow. Clinically, asthma presents with recurrent episodes of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing, symptoms that typically vary in intensity and...
01:29Asthma-I: Introduction
Asthma is a chronic respiratory ailment that requires careful management due to its varying symptoms and influencing factors. It is characterized by airway inflammation, bronchial hyperresponsiveness, and reversible airflow obstruction, leading to symptoms like wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing. The symptom frequency and intensity may vary considerably over time. It is also linked to immune system responses to allergens and irritants, highlighting the complex...
01:19Factors Affecting Pulmonary Ventilation
Besides the pressure difference between the external environment and the lungs, the airflow rate and ease of pulmonary ventilation are also influenced by three other factors: surface tension of the fluid in the alveoli, compliance of the lungs, and airway resistance.
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
Alveolar Surface Tension
The alveolar fluid lines the luminal surface of the alveoli and exerts a force called surface tension. This force is caused by the polar water molecules in the liquid being more strongly attracted to each...
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is a chronic pulmonary condition involving inflammation of the airways, hyper-reactivity, and reversible obstruction of the airways. This condition can significantly impact a person's quality of life, making breathing difficult and leading to distressing symptoms.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.