Individual differences in susceptibility to color induced visual discomfort

Color and certain color combinations are known to affect visual discomfort and cortical excitation. They also increase the likelihood of seizure activity in patients with photosensitive epilepsy. What remains unclear is the extent of the individual differences in susceptibility in experiencing color induces visual discomfort in the non-clinical population. In the current study, we examine ratings of discomfort as a function of color difference at different levels of saturation away from the white point. Participants were a sample of non-clinical individuals who vary in their visual sensitivity. Participants completed the Pattern Glare Test (PGT), in which they report any visual illusions or sensations they experienced when viewing achromatic striped patterns varying in spatial frequency. Classically, the mid-range spatial frequency PGT evokes the most illusions and is associated with increased cortical activity and visual discomfort. Individuals who reported seeing more illusions to the mid-range spatial frequency PGT reported stronger discomfort from increasing color difference. In addition, the effect of color difference on discomfort depended on the color saturation: mid-saturation colors showed greater effects of color difference on discomfort than high and low saturation colors. Together, this demonstrates a spectrum of visual discomfort to color that is evident even in healthy individuals. The use of color differences and saturation in media and design should be considered to mitigate harm, especially for individuals who experience greater visual discomfort in their daily lives.