Mind Over Morsels

Publication Date

2026

Presentation Length

15 minutes

College

College of Sciences & Mathematics

Department

Psychological Science, Department of

Student Level

Undergraduate

Faculty Mentor

Michael Oliver

Presentation Type

Talk/Oral

Summary

Existing research suggests a strong relationship between multisensory processing and attention, with the five senses interacting in complex ways to influence cognitive functioning (Talsma et al., 2010). Much of this research has focused on visual and auditory inputs, showing that cognitive performance can decline when individuals are exposed to excessive visual and auditory stimulation (Ersin et al., 2021). Alternatively, other sensory modalities, such as taste, have been less thoroughly examined within cognitive science (Talsma et al., 2010). Some evidence indicates that cognitive load can influence taste perception; for example, increased memory load has been shown to reduce sensitivity to both sweetness and bitterness (Liang et al., 2018). However, there remains a gap in understanding how attention and task demand specifically affect taste perception. The present study investigates whether engagement in a cognitive task alters sensitivity to a sweet gustatory stimulus. Participants were assigned to one of two conditions: a tasked (high cognitive load) group and a non-tasked (low cognitive load) group. All participants watched a selective attention video; however, those in the tasked group were instructed to focus on specific details, while the non-tasked group watched passively. Midway through the video, participants were given a piece of chocolate and asked to rate its sweetness and intensity. This procedure was repeated after the video concluded. Participants in the tasked condition also completed an attention check questionnaire to confirm engagement. We hypothesize that participants in the tasked condition will report lower taste intensity compared to those in the non-tasked condition. By examining the interaction between attention and taste perception, this study aims to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of multisensory cognition. These findings may also have practical implications, extending beyond theory to inform real-world eating behaviors.

Comments

We would like to request the 9:45-10:45 slot if possible, as it is the only slot that fits within all our schedules!

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