A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY TO ASSESS SYMPATHETIC REACTIVITY, AUDIO-VISUAL REACTION TIME, AND ANXIETY LEVELS IN YOUNG STUDENTS (18–24 YEARS)
Dr. R. Aravind Kumar*, Dr. G. Raja Rajeshwari
ABSTRACT
Background: Emotional tension and sensory load influence autonomic balance and cognitive performance in students pursuing health sciences. Sympathetic reactivity, an indirect marker of stress adaptability, along with reaction time and anxiety level, provides a window into the psychophysiological profile of young adults. Early identification of altered autonomic reactivity and delayed response times may support academic health initiatives in high-pressure educational environments. Aim: To evaluate the relationship between sympathetic reactivity, audio-visual reaction time, and anxiety level among paramedical students aged 18–24 years. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 100 apparently healthy paramedical students (60 females, 40 males). Sympathetic reactivity was measured using the cold pressor and isometric handgrip tests. Audio-visual reaction times were recorded with a digital reaction timer, and anxiety levels were assessed using the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI). Statistical analysis used independent t-tests and Pearson correlation; p < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Mean diastolic pressure rise during the handgrip test and systolic rise during the cold-pressor test were higher in males than females (p < 0.05). Visual reaction times were longer than auditory times in both genders, while participants with high-anxiety scores exhibited significantly prolonged reaction times and exaggerated sympathetic responses. A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.41, p < 0.01) existed between anxiety score and diastolic BP increment. Conclusion: Greater anxiety was associated with enhanced sympathetic reactivity and slower sensory-motor response. Regular screening of stress physiology among college students could aid preventive mental-health strategies within academic institutions.
Keywords: Sympathetic reactivity, audio-visual reaction time, anxiety, cold-pressor test, handgrip test, paramedical students, India.
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