Citation

Travis RC. J. Exp. Psychol. 1944; 34(5): 418-424.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1944, American Psychological Association)

DOI

10.1037/h0057350

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This device consists of a platform mounted on a universal joint with spring supports under each corner of the platform; a hinged stylus which makes contact as it moves over a target; an electric interval timer; and an electric counter. The subject attempts to stand on the platform for one minute, with feet together and hands at his side while he focuses on the target. Since weight and height were found to be variables, a table is included showing mean scores and standard deviations for different height and weight groups of 164 college men and 157 college women. The reliability of the stabilometer, ascertained by correlating successive trials, showed the following correlations when visual cues were operating: trial one with trial two, .86; trial two with trial three, .85; and trial one with trial three, .80. During an extended series of trials, a small amount of learning was observed. It was found "that individuals reporting fatigue, recent imbibing of alcohol, loss of sleep, or recent violent exercise tend markedly towards inadequacy in performance of this type, whereas those reporting previous training in dancing, skiing, gymnastics and skating tend towards a performance far above normal." (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)