Open AccessPsychophysiological hypotheses regarding multiple chemical sensitivity syndrome.
Author(s) -
Paul M. Lehrer
Publication year - 1997
Publication title -
environmental health perspectives
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.257
H-Index - 282
eISSN - 1552-9924
pISSN - 0091-6765
DOI - 10.1289/ehp.97105s2479
Subject(s) - multiple chemical sensitivity , psychophysiology , psychology , situational ethics , perception , psychophysics , cognitive psychology , stereotypy , coping (psychology) , neuroscience , social psychology , clinical psychology , amphetamine , psychiatry , dopamine
This paper proposes several hypotheses and research strategies for exploring possible psychological factors contributing to multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS). The hypotheses are based on concepts of individual response stereotypy, situational response specificity, classical conditioning of chemical-induced responses, and psychophysiological reactions to active and passive coping orientations. Hypotheses regarding hypersensitivity to perception and/or aversiveness of chemical stimulation also are presented. Strategies for evaluating these hypotheses are described based on experimental literature on psychophysiology and psychophysics.
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