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Diurnal variation in mood and performance in a time-isolated environment
T H Monk1, J E Fookson, M L Moline
1Department of Psychiatry, Cornell University Medical College, NY.
Chronobiology International
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Temporal isolation revealed daily rhythms in mood and performance. Psychological functions showed distinct daily patterns, some independent of the body temperature rhythm.
Area of Science:
- Chronobiology
- Psychological Science
- Human Circadian Rhythms
Background:
- Circadian rhythms influence psychological functions.
- Temporal isolation offers a controlled environment to study these rhythms.
- Previous research indicates a link between body temperature and cognitive performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To document circadian rhythmicity in psychological functions.
- To investigate these rhythms under temporal isolation.
- To compare psychological rhythms with rectal temperature rhythms.
Main Methods:
- 18 subjects (ages 19-81) underwent 5 days of temporal isolation.
- Mood and performance tests were administered ~6 times daily.
- Rectal temperature was monitored and analyzed alongside psychological data.
Main Results:
- Significant time-of-day effects were observed in alertness, sleepiness, weariness, effort, happiness, and well-being.
- Peak mood times did not align with peak body temperature.
- Performance on search and dexterity tasks showed time-of-day variations.
Conclusions:
- Psychological functions exhibit distinct circadian rhythms.
- These rhythms can be documented under temporal isolation.
- The relationship between psychological rhythms and body temperature is complex and task-dependent.