Journal
BRAIN AND BEHAVIOR
Volume 12, Issue 5, Pages -Publisher
WILEY
DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2554
Keywords
cognition; neuroticism; reaction time; startle; stress
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Funding
- Knut och AliceWallenbergs Stiftelse [KAW2014.0205]
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This study examines the effects of startle on performance in a choice reaction time task and finds that the reaction time is significantly slower in subsequent trials. Neuroticism and physiological stress are not related to this performance effect.
Introduction The negative cognitive effects of the startle response are not yet fully understood. Ecological observations in the aviation field indicate risk for severe outcomes in complex or pressured situations, while sparse previous research suggests milder negative effects on simple cognitive tasks. Neuroticism is proposed as a factor related to the level of negative effects following startle. Methods This study examined the effects of startle on performance in a choice reaction time task and analyzed relations between performance, neuroticism, and physiological stress. Results Our results indicate that reaction time directly following startle was not affected, but reaction time in subsequent trials was significantly slower. Neuroticism and physiological stress were both unrelated to this performance effect. Discussion We argue that higher complexity/demand tasks are necessary to complement the research on base cognitive functioning in relation to startle. If neuroticism is related to startle effects, this is more likely to be found in these higher demand situations.
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