Image

The Effect of Nonverbal Vocalisations on Pain Tolerance

The Effect of Nonverbal Vocalisations on Pain Tolerance

Recruiting
18-60 years
All
Phase N/A

Powered by AI

Overview

Humans produce non-verbal vocalizations (shouting, growling, screaming), laughter, ...) in various contexts that are likely to perform biological functions.

and important social issues. Yet despite their importance in the human vocal repertoire, the mechanisms and functions of non-verbal vocalizations remain little studied and poorly understood including in humans. In this context, the investigators wish to examine how the production of vocalizations non-verbal communication influences pain tolerance in healthy adults.

Description

Humans produce nonverbal vocalisations such as screams, grunts, roars, cries and laughter across a variety of contexts. Yet despite the prominence and apparent importance of these nonverbal sounds in human communication, the investigators still know very little about their influence on human perception and behaviour. That's why, in this study, the investigators will examine specifically the influence of nonverbal vocal production on pain tolerance.

The remainder of the study will involve up to three trials of a pain tolerance (cold pressor) task, during which the investigators will ask participants to produce vocalisations (e.g., screams or words) while submerging the participant's hand in bath of circulating cold water.

The results of the study will contribute to our theoretical understanding of the functions of nonverbal vocal communication in humans, in particular the influence of nonverbal vocal production (i.e., yelling) on pain tolerance.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Participant in good health
  • Affiliated or entitled participant in a social security scheme
  • Participant who has received informed information about the study and has co-signed a consent to participate in the study with the investigator.

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Chronic pain
  • High blood pressure or poor circulation
  • Cardiac or vascular disease, or a heart condition (including symptoms of Raynaud's syndrome)
  • Allergy or hypersensitivity to cold
  • Diabetes
  • Epilepsy
  • Pregnancy
  • Recent serious injury
  • Neurological or psychiatric condition known to affect pain tolerance (e.g., peripheral neuropathy, schizophrenia)
  • History of fainting or seizures
  • History of frostbite
  • Chronic smoker (more than 10 cigarettes a day)

Study details
    Healthy

NCT04425395

Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint Etienne

10 July 2025

Step 1 Get in touch with the nearest study center
We have submitted the contact information you provided to the research team at {{SITE_NAME}}. A copy of the message has been sent to your email for your records.
Would you like to be notified about other trials? Sign up for Patient Notification Services.
Sign up

Send a message

Enter your contact details to connect with study team

Investigator Avatar

Primary Contact

  Other languages supported:

First name*
Last name*
Email*
Phone number*
Other language

FAQs

Learn more about clinical trials

What is a clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a study designed to test specific interventions or treatments' effectiveness and safety, paving the way for new, innovative healthcare solutions.

Why should I take part in a clinical trial?

Participating in a clinical trial provides early access to potentially effective treatments and directly contributes to the healthcare advancements that benefit us all.

How long does a clinical trial take place?

The duration of clinical trials varies. Some trials last weeks, some years, depending on the phase and intention of the trial.

Do I get compensated for taking part in clinical trials?

Compensation varies per trial. Some offer payment or reimbursement for time and travel, while others may not.

How safe are clinical trials?

Clinical trials follow strict ethical guidelines and protocols to safeguard participants' health. They are closely monitored and safety reviewed regularly.
Add a private note
  • abc Select a piece of text.
  • Add notes visible only to you.
  • Send it to people through a passcode protected link.