The Cold Pressor Test and Autonomic Function: A Review and Integration

ABSTRACT The purpose of the present paper is to review the literature on the cold pressor test and to discuss the ways in which these investigations have pointed toward a model of homeostatic function. The research employing the cold pressor test includes studies of psychosomatic illness, factors influencing autonomic response in stress, the relationship between psychological disorder and autonomic responsivity, as well as studies of cortical influences on autonomic function, and the relationship between stress and task performance. From these studies, several parameters of a potential model of homoeostasis are selected and discussed. Particular emphasis is placed on the role of autonomic balance and initial values in influencing autonomic response to stress.