Peripheral psychophysiology

Peripheral psychophysiology comprises a broad range of reliable research methods which have collectively made enormous contributions to the field of clinical psychology. This chapter provides a bird's-eye view of peripheral psychophysiology methods and summarizes a selection of their best-replicated clinical correlates. The chapter begins by reviewing influential theoretical models used to explain the link between physiology and psychological experiences, including Polyvagal Theory and the Neurovisceral Integration Model. A discussion follows of cross-measure methodological considerations when conducting peripheral psychophysiological research. Finally, several specific measures are examined: cardiovascular (heart rate, heart rate variability, and respiratory sinus arrhythmia), electrodermal (skin conductance), startle responses, electro-oculography (eye-tracking), and pupillometry. For each measure, its history, the underlying biological mechanisms, methodological recommendations, and selected clinical findings are discussed. This chapter provides an approachable introduction to this expansive field and also updates methodological recommendations and the associated clinical literature.