What is the startle reflex?
The startle reflex is a characteristic spike in the galvanicskin response that usually occurs 1-3 seconds after the onset of a startleprobe or a novel stimulus. Typically, a startle probe refers to a loudnoise, bright light, or puff of air designed to startle or suddenly divert the attention of the subject. A similar spike in conductivity can be generated when a subject “orients” to a new stimulus — a person suddenly standing next to you, for example.
The startle reflex is a characteristic spike in the galvanicskin response that usually occurs 1-3 seconds after the onset of a startleprobe or a novel stimulus. Typically, a startle probe refers to a loudnoise, bright light, or puff of air designed to “startle” or suddenly divert the attention of the subject. A similar spike in conductivity can be generated when a subject “orients” to a new stimulus — a person suddenly standing next to you, for example.