The space around us : utilizing the hand-blink reflex to model defensive peripersonal space, and exploring interactions with state anxiety : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Psychology at Massey University, Manawatū campus, New Zealand

Abstract

Personal Space is a complex field, including boundaries used in social interactions, navigation and defence. The Defensive Peripersonal Space (DPPS) is a close proximity personal space used for defence, thought to be located within reaching distance. The DPPS is measured in individuals by the Hand-Blink Reflex (HBR), a blink reflex triggered by electrical stimulation of the median nerve at the wrist. By triggering the HBR while varying the hands distance from the face, an individual’s DPPS can be approximated. The field of DPPS and HBR research is however new and the HBR method is highly complex. This study replicated a HBR testing method, finding support for the presence of the DPPS, while finding the method extremely delicate, and in need of refinement and clarification. It is anticipated that this study will add help refine the HBR testing method, and be a useful addition to the field.