This study examines how individuals respond to performance-related tasks and whether a non-invasive ear stimulation device influences stress responses during those tasks. Participants will be randomly assigned to use either an active or inactive (placebo) version of a transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) device during a laboratory session.
The study includes two task conditions. In one condition, participants will prepare a brief speech under evaluative conditions designed to induce stress. In the other condition, participants will complete a non-evaluative writing task. During the session, participants will wear a heart rate monitor and complete short questionnaires assessing their current feelings, including state anxiety.
The primary objective is to determine whether active tVNS is associated with lower state anxiety during a performance-related stress task compared to placebo stimulation. Secondary outcomes include heart rate and task-related responses. The study will also examine whether individual differences in stress reactivity influence responses to stimulation.
Participation involves one laboratory session lasting approximately 45 minutes.
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Factorial
Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS)
DeviceTranscutaneous vagus nerve stimulation delivered via an auricular stimulation device. Participants receive either active stimulation or sham stimulation depending on random assignment
Evaluative Stress Task
BehavioralParticipants complete either an evaluative stress-induction task involving social evaluation or a non-evaluative control task. Task condition is assigned as part of the factorial design.
Self-Reported Stress
Self-reported stress assessed using a questionnaire/scale administered before and after the performance task to capture changes in perceived stress during the laboratory session.
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