How the Motor Aspect of Speaking Influences the Blink Rate

The blink rate increases if a person indulges in a conversation compared to quiet rest. Since various factors were suggested to explain this increase, the present study tested the influence of motor activity, cognitive processes and auditory input on the blink rate but at the same time excluding any social interaction. While the cognitive and auditory factors only showed a minor influence, mere mouth movements during speaking highly increased the blink rate. Even more specific, lip movements, but less jaw movements, are likely responsible for the increase during a conversation. Such purely motor related influences on the blink rate advise caution when using blinks as neurological indicators during patient interviews.