PSY WK2 A2

1. Individual differences in physiological functioning and behavior. 

Read the instructions below. To complete this activity you will have to download the chart, PSY1010_Wk2_Chart3. Make as many copies of the chart as you need. After gathering your data and forming your conclusions, be sure to attach your data charts to your assignment response. 

Eysenck has suggested that differences in introversion-extraversion are closely linked to the cortical arousal of the brain’s reticular formation. Extraverts seem to have higher sensory thresholds and less-arousable cortices. One way to tell whether someone is introverted or extraverted is to measure his or her reaction to having pure lemon juice placed on his or her tongue.

For this project, select five friends who are willing to participate. First, administer the Introversion Extraversion Scale (labeled “The Cheek and Buss Scale” to prevent subjects from having preconceived ideas about the purpose; it’s attached at the end so you can get a relatively clean copy), then place a drop of lemon juice on each of their tongues and record their reactions. Monitor for facial expressions as well as verbal reports. 

After your subjects have left, score their scale. Never tell your subjects how they scored on a scale; you’re not qualified, and you could damage their self-esteem. Reassure them that their results will be combined with those of all your subjects, and their anonymity is guaranteed. 

Scoring the scale: 
Reverse the scores for items 3, 6, 9, and 12 (5=1, 4=2, 3=3, 2=4, 1=5).
Add up these reversed scores with all the other scores for that person. 
If the score is 40 or above, consider your subject an introvert. 
If the score is less than 40, consider your subject an extravert.