A Hardy-Wolff-Goodell heat test and a pressure algometer test of pain tolerance were given to 72 female Ss divided into two groups on the basis of their R-S scores. Half the Ss received the heat test first while half received the pressure test first. 5 min. elapsed between the two trials. Analysis of the data indicated that repressors had a higher tolerance for pain than sensitizers on the first trial. However, repressors showed a significant decrease in their tolerance scores from Trial 1 to 2, but not sensitizers. These results were opposite to those expected, indicating that personality factors may have a different effect on the way an individual copes with repeated exposures to psychological stresses and with repeated exposure to pain.
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