Publication Date
Fall 2026
College
College of Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
Department
Psychology
Document Type
Poster
Description
The placebo effect is well-studied on pain perception, but not many studies have examined the placebo effect on stress. The current study explores whether a deceptive stress‑reducing tincture (filled with water) influences participants’ cortisol responses and self‑reported stress while undergoing a modified acute stress task: the Sing-a-Song Stress Test (SSST). Given the rise of mental health concerns and misuse of medication, this area of research may provide new directions for developing treatments that incorporate the placebo effect, which may enhance treatment outcomes.
COinS