Determining the accuracy of the psychophysical approach to grip force measurement.

This study examined the accuracy of estimating actual grip force by measuring perceived force simulation using a hand dynamometer. A multifactorial design was used to ascertain whether there was a difference between actual and perceived grip force performance using three levels of force, three different age groups, males and females, and both dominant and nondominant hands. One hundred ninety-eight participants were asked to exert an exact amount of grip force marked on a dynamometer, and then asked to replicate the same amount without the visual feedback of the dial. This was repeated for both hands for all three force levels. Significant differences were found between the actual and perceived grip force performance using three different levels of force, among the age categories, and between males and females. This study provides evidence that use of the psychophysical method of grip force measurement may not be an accurate methodology for determining task demands involving grip force.