Sensation Seeking and Subjective Unpleasantness Ratings of Stimulus Intensity

Abstract

Zuckerman's Sensation Seeking Scale measures tendency to seek novel, varied, complex, and intense sensations and experiences and the willingness to take risks for the sake of such experiences. In this study, the subjective experience of sensory intensity change was explored by asking six high and six low sensation seekers to expose themselves to a combined sound and vibration stimulus that increased in intensity until one of three different levels of subjective unpleasantness was reached. Analysis showed that high sensation seekers consistently exposed themselves to longer periods of stimulation and thus higher intensities.