Characterization of stress reactions to the Stroop Color Word Test.

Sympatho-adrenal activation induced by stress contributes to the development of pathological states such as hypertension and anxiety disorders. The Stroop Color Word Test (CWT) is evaluated as a test for the study of stress-induced sympathetic effects, on the basis of psychological, physiological and biochemical responses. The CWT induced increases in plasma and urinary adrenaline, heart rate, respiration rate, electrodermal activity, electromyography, feelings of anxiety, and decreased finger pulse amplitude.