Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
“Will an individual be more prone to anxiety or panic attacks with an increase in body temperature?” Anxiety is defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome. Commonly known is the idea that situational factors, such as the death of a family member or financial stress may increase a person’s anxiety levels. Yet, according to research, factors such as physical location or high temperatures may also determine the prominence of anxiety. Using temperature- controlled environments in conjunction with medical instruments, we measured the anxiety levels of participants through the duration of anxiety-inducing media. By analyzing these physiological responses, we can gain insight into the correlation between temperature and anxiety, as well as inform future research on the role of environmental factors in the development of anxiety interventions.
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Roletha Pillow
Recommended Citation
Loewinger, Denise Lori and Walmer, Laci Joy, "Heat Waves and Heart Rates: Exploring the Correlation Between Temperature and Anxiety" (2025). Student Scholar Symposium. 99.
https://digitalcollections.lipscomb.edu/student_scholars_symposium/2025/Full_schedule/99
Included in
Heat Waves and Heart Rates: Exploring the Correlation Between Temperature and Anxiety
“Will an individual be more prone to anxiety or panic attacks with an increase in body temperature?” Anxiety is defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome. Commonly known is the idea that situational factors, such as the death of a family member or financial stress may increase a person’s anxiety levels. Yet, according to research, factors such as physical location or high temperatures may also determine the prominence of anxiety. Using temperature- controlled environments in conjunction with medical instruments, we measured the anxiety levels of participants through the duration of anxiety-inducing media. By analyzing these physiological responses, we can gain insight into the correlation between temperature and anxiety, as well as inform future research on the role of environmental factors in the development of anxiety interventions.