In evolutionary terms it could be useful to faint if there’s blood aroundAt Science Gallery London,we were immersed in blood as we worked on our current exhibition. We also brushed up on our first aid as we expected some visitors to exhibit a specific response to the material we presented. But why carry out people faint at the sight of blood?The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) has historically treated blood, injection or injury phobia as a specific sub category, and for sterling biological reason. With many other phobias,exposure to the stimulus (a picture of a spider, say) results in an increase in heart rate. But with blood, and this is followed by a sudden decrease in heart rate and blood pressure,which can lead to fainting. This latter element is similar to the disgust response and is opposite to pure dread. In evolutionary terms, this may be useful if it’s you who’s been injured, or since it might stop you from losing blood. And some occupy wondered whether its an automatic version of ‘playing dead’. If someone in your group has been badly injured,it may be worth keeping your head down. Whatever its origins, it certainly adds an interesting layer to an exhibition experience.
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Source: guardian.co.uk