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Epidemic faintness: a psychophysiological investigation
Psychiatria Clinica
|January 1, 1981
Summary
Fainting episodes in telephone operators were linked to temporary anxiety attacks triggered by environmental stress, not hysteria or anxiety disorders. This psychophysiological study highlights stress responses in occupational settings.
Area of Science:
- Psychophysiology
- Occupational Health
- Psychological Stress
Background:
- Fainting episodes occurred in telephone operators during an epidemic.
- Previous explanations like hysteria or anxiety state were considered.
- The need for psychophysiological investigation was identified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the psychophysiological underpinnings of fainting episodes in telephone operators.
- To differentiate the cause of fainting from hysteria or anxiety disorders.
- To assess the role of environmental stress in these episodes.
Main Methods:
- Psychophysiological assessment in 16 telephone operators who fainted and 16 controls.
- Measurement of heart rate, skin conductance, and pulse volume at rest and during stimulation.
- Administration of anxiety, depression, and personality inventories.
Main Results:
- Fainting episodes were associated with psychophysiological responses indicative of anxiety.
- No significant differences were found to support hysteria or generalized anxiety states.
- Environmental stress was identified as a key factor triggering the fainting episodes.
Conclusions:
- Fainting episodes in this cohort represent transitory anxiety attacks.
- The findings suggest a stress-response mechanism rather than a pre-existing psychological disorder.
- Occupational environmental stress is a significant factor in psychophysiological responses like fainting.