Gender differences in the relationship between neuroticism and odor memory.

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Sensory Science

Background:

• Neuroticism is associated with olfactory functions and emotional odor memory.
• Previous research has not explored the link between neuroticism and odor memory performance.
• Gender differences in personality and olfactory abilities are well-documented.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between neuroticism and odor memory performance.
• To examine potential gender differences in this relationship.
• To explore the implications of these findings for understanding olfactory memory.

Main Methods:

• Participants completed the NEO Five Factor Inventory for neuroticism assessment.
• A 32-item "Test for odor memory" was administered.
• Data were analyzed using Spearman correlation and Bayesian approaches, with Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons.

Main Results:

• Women demonstrated superior odor memory performance and higher neuroticism levels than men.
• Neuroticism positively correlated with odor recognition and D-prime in women.
• The correlation between neuroticism and odor memory was significantly stronger in women than in men.

Conclusions:

• Neuroticism may be associated with conscious odor remembering in women.
• This link might be explained by the warning function of odor memory and its connection to limbic structures.
• Higher neuroticism and odor memory performance in women contribute to these observed gender differences.