AROMA-NCE: How Scent Affects Perceived Attraction

Publication Date

5-2025

College

College of Sciences & Mathematics

Department

Psychological Science, Department of

Student Level

Undergraduate

Faculty Advisor

Michael Oliver

SPARK Session

11:45-12:15

Presentation Type

Talk/Oral

Summary

Abstract

Attraction seems to be influenced by various sensory cues such as visual, auditory, and olfactory influences. While past research has shown that odor has a significant effect on social and romantic attraction, the effect of various odors on perceived attractiveness is still an ongoing area of investigation. One of the greatest obstacles in the field is establishing how some odors, pleasant and unpleasant, influence attraction ratings under experimental settings.

This study examines the effects of scent on perceived attractiveness using a controlled experimental design. A total of 42 participants were divided into six separate conditions, and each group entered a room where a scent was diffused via an essential oil and diffuser. The scent conditions included a pleasant scent which was cinnamon, a no scent condition (neutral), and an unpleasant scent which was a body odor essential oil with two trials of each condition. Participants then completed a 15-minute survey where they rated AI-created faces on a scale from 1 (unattractive) to 10 (very attractive).

While data analysis is ongoing, we anticipate this study will lead to increased attraction associated with pleasant scents. This could provide insight into the psychological mechanisms that link olfactory cues with attraction. Findings from this research may contribute to broader discussions on the role of scent in social perception and biological processes. Further results and their implications will be presented upon completion of the study.

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