[Transitory decreases in skin temperature during temperature increase training: possible explanation]

During biofeedback training, skin temperature changes were analyzed. Ten male undergraduates were asked to increase the temperature of the right index finger under three conditions: rest instructions with simulation feedback (Rest-SF), response-specific instructions without feedback (RI-NF), and response-specific instructions with feedback (RI-F). Skin temperature decreases during the early trials under the RI-F condition continued longer than under the RI-NF condition. Recovery from temperature decreases occurred faster after the repetition of feedback sessions. Skin temperature decreases were not observed under the Rest-SF condition. These results suggest that skin temperature decreases during early training associated with response-specific instructions, feedback, and the novelty of training. The results were also discussed in terms of the techniques which could increase skin temperature.