| Popis: |
The nocebo effect can be described as the negative counterpart of the placebo effect. It is a negative treatment outcome that is caused, not by the active components of a treatment itself, but by negative expectations that an individual holds about the effects of the treatment. These negative expectations can result in, for instance, lowered treatment efficacy or a higher prevalence of treatment side effects. Despite the accumulative literature on the negative effects of nocebo especially on pain outcomes, not much is known about the underlying mechanisms of nocebo effects. Some evidence exists that stress and the stress hormone cortisol could play an important role in the development of nocebo effects. In the present study we will investigate the effect of social stress on the nocebo hyperalgesia induced by classical conditioning. Participants will undergo either the Trier Social Stress test, a validated test that elicits stress response and increases cortisol levels, or a control non-stressful test. Afterwards, nocebo effect in pain will be induced by a combination of verbal suggestions regarding a sham transdermal axillary nerve stimulator and a pain conditioning procedure. The main aim is to investigate whether experiencing social stress, enhances nocebo effects in pain. |
