law of initial values

the principle that the initial level of a physiological response is a major determinant of a later response in that system. Thus, if an individual’s pulse rate is high, his or her cardiovascular response to an emotion-provoking stimulus will be weaker than if the initial pulse rate had been low. Also called initial value dependency; initial values law; rate dependence effect. See rate dependency. [proposed in 1931 by U.S. neuropsychiatrist Joseph Wilder (1895–1976)]

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Psychology term of the day

May 8th 2024

divergent thinking

creative thinking in which an individual solves a problem or reaches a decision using strategies that deviate from commonly used or previously taught strategies. This term is often used synonymously with lateral thinking. Compare convergent thinking. [defined in 1967 by Joy Paul Guilford]