Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

5. Integumentary System

Glands

Anatomy & Physiology

5. Integumentary System

Glands

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Problem 30

Textbook Question

One of the factors to which lie detectors respond is an increase in electrical skin conductance due to the presence of moisture. Explain the physiological basis for the use of this indicator.

Verified step by step guidance

Understand that electrical skin conductance is influenced by the activity of sweat glands, which are controlled by the autonomic nervous system, specifically the sympathetic division.

Recognize that the sympathetic nervous system is activated during stress, fear, or emotional arousal, leading to an increase in sweat production by eccrine sweat glands located on the skin.

Explain that sweat contains electrolytes, such as sodium and chloride ions, which enhance the skin's ability to conduct electricity when moisture is present.

Discuss how lie detectors measure changes in skin conductance by applying a small electrical current to the skin and detecting variations in resistance or conductance, which correlate with emotional responses.

Conclude that the physiological basis for using skin conductance as an indicator in lie detectors is rooted in the body's natural response to stress or arousal, which increases sweat production and, consequently, electrical conductivity of the skin.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Electrodermal Activity (EDA)

Electrodermal activity refers to the changes in the electrical properties of the skin, primarily due to sweat gland activity. When a person experiences emotional arousal, such as stress or anxiety, the sympathetic nervous system activates, leading to increased sweat production. This moisture alters the skin's conductivity, making EDA a useful indicator in lie detection.

Sympathetic Nervous System

The sympathetic nervous system is a part of the autonomic nervous system responsible for the body's 'fight or flight' response. It triggers physiological changes during stressful situations, including increased heart rate, blood pressure, and sweat production. Understanding its role is crucial for comprehending how emotional states can influence physiological responses measured by lie detectors.

Lie Detection Mechanisms

Lie detection mechanisms often rely on physiological indicators, such as changes in heart rate, blood pressure, and electrodermal activity, to assess truthfulness. The underlying assumption is that deceptive behavior is associated with emotional stress, which can manifest in measurable physiological responses. This concept is central to understanding how lie detectors interpret data to infer honesty or deception.