Relaxation, noise-induced stress, and autonomic responsivity in male alcoholics and normal controls.

Skin conductance and heart rate activity were monitored in male alcoholics and normal controls before, during, and after the presentation of high-intensity (100 db) white noise. Analysis of nonstressful, pre- and postnoise periods indicated a relatively nonlabile pattern characterizing alcoholics as they exhibited lower skin conductance levels than normals and showed no changes in activity either within or between resting sessions. A similar pattern was observed in response to noise-induced stress as alcoholics exhibited significantly smaller changes in skin conductance and heart rate activity.