A researcher uses a device to press two closely-spaced pins onto various places on participants' bodies. Each time, the research asks the participant to say whether they feel two distinct points or only one. The researcher is testing the _____________ of the skin on the different body parts.
A) gate threshold
B) flexibility
C) acuity
D) nociception

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The researcher is testing the acuity of the skin by measuring the ability to distinguish two closely-spaced points. This test is commonly known as the two-point discrimination test and is used to evaluate somatosensation, which in turn reflects the function of the nervous system. The gate threshold refers to the amount of stimulation required to activate pain receptors, flexibility refers to the ability of joints to move freely, and nociception refers to the perception of pain. None of these concepts are directly related to the two-point discrimination test.

A Researcher Uses a Device to Press Two Closely-Spaced Pins