My Experiment: Motivated Object Encoding

I participated in an experiment called Motivated Object Encoding. This study had two parts. In the first phase, I was shown pictures of various objects inside a red, blue, or green frame on a computer program. Using parts of the keyboard, I had to rate the plausibility of the object being the color of the frame. I then had to follow a series of left or right arrow cues that immediately followed each object. I had to react quickly. Afterwards, I filled out questionnaires regarding my current emotional state.

In the second phase, carried out two days after the first, I was again shown pictures of objects. Also using keys, I had to state whether I had seen the object two days ago and what color it was, as well as how certain I was of my answers. After I finished the second part, I completed the study by filling out questionnaires regarding my current emotional state, my psychological health in general, and my personality, as well as the Beck Depression Inventory questionnaire.

The Motivated Object Encoding experiment was a bit long and tedious, but I enjoyed it. I think the results of the study are deeply influenced by numerous factors, especially mental health, memory, and imagination. In light of what we have learned in class, I think that this study will help answer more questions about the nature of the brain and memory, as well as what factors can affect and potentially improve them. I hope to participate in and research other experiments like this one in the future.

http://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0028393212004010-gr1.jpg