An Arousal Interval Scale: A Psychophysical Scale for GSR Analysis

Abstract

An interval scale method of measuring GSR is presented, which measures only deflections without correction for base level. The scale is derived from psychophysics. A distinction is made between the psychological meaning a GSR is given and its physical measurement. This paper asserts, on the basis of empirical studies, that GSR measures the hypothetical construct arousal. Therefore, scales of physical units are unjustified. A review of the literature finds that GSR does not conform to Wilder's (1962) Law of Initial Values. Therefore, an interval scale assuming base level as a “zero” of convenience is justified. Extensions of the use of such an interval scale are discussed.