Reduction of auditory input improves performance on the heartbeat tracking task, but does not necessarily enhance interoception

Abstract

Previous research utilising a between-subjects design has indicated that the use of noise-dampening ear-protectors might enhance interoceptive accuracy (IAcc). In the present study, we further examined this effect using a repeated-measures, within-participants design, and investigated potential mechanisms that might explain the effect. 50 participants completed the heartbeat tracking task (HTT) with and without the use of industrial ear-protectors, in a counter-balanced order. Participants were asked to count the number of heartbeats occurring in five discrete time intervals of 25, 35, 45, 55 and 95 seconds, without feeling for a manual pulse. HTT scores were significantly higher when ear-protectors were worn, and the improvement in performance was greatest for participants with lower baseline IAcc. The ear-protectors were associated with significantly increased self-reported heartbeat audibility, task-related confidence and concentration, and decreased levels of distractibility. Heartbeat audibility was also correlated with HTT performance when the ear-protectors were worn. Because the use of industrial ear defenders resulted in increased heartbeat audibility, this manipulation should not be used to assess causal hypotheses related to changes in IAcc. However, it may serve as a simple, non-invasive manipulation to assess the effects of externalised interoceptive signals. HighlightsO_LIEar-protectors elicit an improvement in performance on the heartbeat tracking task C_LIO_LIThis improvement is greatest for participants with lower baseline accuracy C_LIO_LIThe improvement is associated with the auditory perception of the heartbeat C_LIO_LIPrior use of ear-protectors did not result in later enhanced performance on the control condition without ear-protectors. C_LI