Sensory processing

Mental disorders are characterized by changes in numerous areas (including cognition and emotion). But is sensory processing also affected? To date, there has been little research that has investigated the connection between sensory sensitivity or active perception and the symptoms of mental disorders.

Sensory processing studies

Reduced Olfactory Memory Performance Is Associated with Executive Function Deficits in Older Adults

Recognition performance for odors and images (control condition) was tested using a matching task with older adults (average age 76) and younger adults (24). The older participants performed worse in the olfactory memory task than the younger ones. In older adults, difficulties in remembering odors were associated with reduced cognitive flexibility. Impaired olfactory memory in older adults could be a marker for cognitive decline in areas related to executive functions.

Evaluation of Affective Touch: A Comparison Between Two Groups of Younger and Older Females

Do older people (60-96 years) feel slow, gentle touches to the skin differently to younger people (18-30 years)? Yes! The so-called CT-optimal touch of the skin (stroking) is rated as more pleasant by them - this applies to both self-touch and touch by others.

To the publication: Link

Olfactory imagery as a retrieval method for autobiographical memories

 

This study explores how sensory modalities (olfaction and vision) and emotional dimensions (valence and arousal) influence the retrieval of autobiographical memories (AMs). Engaging 296 women aged 18 to 35, participants were prompted to conjure mental images tied to various emotional states without specific stimuli mentioned. Findings revealed that 78% of participants generated imagery with autobiographical content, with odor imagery being particularly potent in recalling unpleasant adult memories or pleasant childhood ones. However, these olfactory-induced memories were less vivid compared to those evoked visually, which also encompassed a broader range of emotions including happiness, sadness, anxiety, and anger, as opposed to the primarily disgust and happiness linked with odor imagery. The study concludes that inducing imagery through nonspecific instructions is an effective method for accessing AMs, highlighting the significant role of sensory modalities and emotional dimensions in memory retrieval.

To the publication: Link