Abstract
Prior studies have shown that spatial cognition is influenced by stress prior to task. The current study investigated the effects of real-time acute stress on allocentric and egocentric spatial processing. A virtual reality-based spatial reference rule learning (SRRL) task was designed in which participants were instructed to make a location selection by walking to one of three poles situated around a tower. A selection was reinforced by either an egocentric spatial reference rule (leftmost or rightmost pole relative to participant) or an allocentric spatial reference rule (nearest or farthest pole relative to the tower). In Experiment 1, 32 participants (16 males, 16 females; aged from 18 to 27) performed a SRRL task in a normal virtual reality environment (VRE). The hit rates and rule acquisition revealed no difference between allocentric and egocentric spatial reference rule learning. In Experiment 2, 66 participants (32 males, 34 females; aged from 19 to 30) performed the SRRL task in both a low-stress VRE (a mini virtual arena) and a high-stress VRE (mini virtual arena with a fire disaster). Allocentric references facilitated learning in the high-stressful VRE. The results suggested that acute stress facilitate allocentric spatial processing.
Highlights
Prior studies have shown that spatial cognition is influenced by stress prior to task
An allocentric frame of reference functions by specifying location and orientation independent of body position and as such, spatial representations are centered on objects or environmental features compared to self-centered egocentric frame of reference[17,20,21]
The present study investigated whether acute stress affects allocentric and egocentric spatial processing in a simulated stressful environment
Summary
Prior studies have shown that spatial cognition is influenced by stress prior to task. The current study investigated the effects of real-time acute stress on allocentric and egocentric spatial processing. The ability that allows humans or animals to efficiently locate food, partners or avoid dangers as soon as possible, has been linked to the adaptation to environmental stress[22,23,24,25,26] Studies in both animals and humans, have revealed that exposure to stress prior to a task affects spatial learning in a virtual or real Morris water maze[6,7,8,9]. Using a virtual reality maze, Guenzel, et al.[31] demonstrated that exposure to stress prior to the task impaired, rather than facilitated stimulus-response learning (proximal reference). It is possible to observe participants’ response in a real-time natural stress
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
