Researcher Wonders How Well The Sense Of Smell Functions ✓ Solved

A Researcher Wonders How Well The Sense Of Smell Functions

A researcher wonders how well the sense of smell functions during sleep. In general, we know that our sensory systems operate at a higher threshold during sleep. That is, a more intense stimulus is required to elicit a response during sleep than during wakefulness. We are less responsive during some stages of sleep than during others. Experiments using sounds suggest that we are less responsive during stages 3 and 4 sleep (deep sleep) than during stages 1, 2, or REM sleep (lighter sleep). Thus, the researcher predicts that research participants will be less responsive to odors during stages 3 and 4 sleep than during the other stages of sleep. The researcher devises a system for delivering odors while college students sleep in the laboratory. Peppermint fragrance is delivered at specific times through a modified oxygen mask that the students wear while they sleep. Electrode sensors are attached to each student’s scalp, face, and chin to determine sleep staging. Electrodes are also attached to each student’s chest to record heart rate. A change in heart rate following the presentation of the odor is used to indicate that the participant detected the odor. Read the scenario above and answer the following questions: What is the research hypothesis? What is the independent variable? Is the independent variable a qualitative variable or a quantitative variable? Explain. Why might the researchers want to use multiple dependent variables? Describe one limitation of this study. Create an original posting with a minimum of words. Back up your arguments with reliable evidence.

Paper For Above Instructions

Sleep is a crucial component of human life, affecting various physiological and psychological processes, including sensory perception. Among the senses, olfaction, or the sense of smell, is particularly intriguing when it comes to sleep. This paper addresses the research scenario regarding olfactory function during sleep, including the research hypothesis, independent variable analysis, the rationale behind using multiple dependent variables, and potential limitations associated with the study design.

Research Hypothesis

The research hypothesis posited by the researcher is that participants will exhibit reduced responsiveness to odors during deep sleep stages (3 and 4) compared to lighter sleep stages (1, 2, and REM). This hypothesis is grounded in the existing literature that suggests diminished sensory responsiveness across multiple sensory modalities during deeper stages of sleep. For instance, studies have shown that sound stimuli elicit weaker responses in deeper sleep stages, indicating a generalized attenuation of sensory responsiveness (Tamaki et al., 2016).

Independent Variable

The independent variable in this study is the stage of sleep, which is manipulated through the delivery of peppermint fragrance at specific times. Sleep stages can be categorized into several phases: REM and non-REM (which includes stages 1, 2, 3, and 4). It is essential to note that the independent variable is a qualitative variable, as it categorically classifies the type of sleep into distinct stages rather than measuring it on a numerical scale. Qualitative variables, as opposed to quantitative ones, describe characteristics or qualities that cannot be quantified but can affect outcomes significantly (Cohen & Struiksma, 2020).

Use of Multiple Dependent Variables

Researchers might opt to use multiple dependent variables to capture a comprehensive picture of how odor detection varies across different sleep stages. In this study, heart rate changes serve as one dependent measure indicating odor detection. However, additional measures could include brain activity levels (measured via EEG) and subjective reports upon waking (via questionnaires assessing awareness of scents). Utilizing multiple dependent variables can provide a robust understanding of sensory processing, as it allows cross-validation of results and captures the complexity inherent in sleep processes. Using various measures can help clarify if changes in heart rate are consistently accompanied by shifts in brain activity or subjective awareness, ultimately leading to a more nuanced understanding of olfactory processing during sleep (Dinges & Pack, 1997).

Limitations of the Study

Despite the intriguing premise of the study, there are notable limitations. One crucial limitation is the potential for confounding variables that may influence both sleep quality and olfactory responsiveness. For example, individual differences in sleep disorders, medications, or even prior exposure to strong odors could significantly affect the outcome. Additionally, the context in which the participants are sleeping (e.g., laboratory versus home environment) might differ in terms of stress levels and overall comfort, potentially impacting their sleep depth and, consequently, the study’s findings. Therefore, while the experimental design is robust, generalizing results to broader populations must be approached with caution due to these confounding factors (Walker, 2017).

Conclusion

In conclusion, exploring the relationship between smell and sleep through controlled experimental conditions provides valuable insights into sensory processing during sleep. The hypothesis that responsiveness to odors is diminished during deep sleep stages aligns with established findings in sleep research. The independent variable categorizes sleep stages qualitatively, while the use of multiple dependent measures can strengthen the robustness of research findings. However, researchers must remain vigilant regarding potential limitations that could affect the study's validity and generalizability.

References

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• Tamaki, M., et al. (2016). Enhanced Sensitivity of Auditory Stimuli During REM Sleep. Journal of Neuroscience. 36(50), 12639-12644.
• Walker, A. M. (2017). Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams. Scribner.
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