ABSTRACT
Physiological arousal occurs as adrenaline (epinephrine) is elevated in the cardiovascular and endocrine systems. Arousal can be indexed by cardiovascular measures, such as blood pressure and heart rate, as well as electrodermal activity. A series of studies is reviewed in which relational partners are asked to imagine discussing a topic that they are either highly pleased with or displeased with and then to actually discuss that topic. Results revealed effects on blood pressure and heart rate. Additional studies of storytelling, sports fandom, road rage, and detecting signals of physical coercion are reviewed. The chapter concludes with new research in quantum observation.
