Anterior electroencephalographic asymmetry changes in elderly women in response to a pleasant and an unpleasant odor

Author(s): Blackhart, G. C., Woodward, K. M., Williams, S. R., Schwartz, G. E. R.

Journal/Book: Biol Psychol. 2000; 52: PO Box 211, 1000 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands. Elsevier Science Bv. 241-250.

Abstract: Greater left than right frontal EEG activation has been associated with increased positive and/or decreased negative affect, whereas greater right than left frontal activation has been associated with the opposite pattern. Substantial research has documented the trait properties of asymmetry, as well as responses to pleasant and unpleasant stimuli. The present study examined changes in anterior alpha asymmetries in response to pleasant (vanilla), unpleasant (valerian), and neutral (water) odors. As predicted, Vanilla produced relative left frontal activation compared to valerian and water. Frontal asymmetry did not differ in response to valerian compared to water. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that the left frontal region of the brain is involved in positive/approach-related emotion, and extend previous results into the olfactory realm.

Note: Article Kline JP, Florida State Univ, Dept Psychol, Tallahassee,FL 32306 USA

Keyword(s): EEG; electroencephalogram; anterior asymmetry; emotion; affect; olfaction; STARTLE REFLEX MODULATION; FRONTAL BRAIN ACTIVATION; MAJOR DEPRESSION; EEG ACTIVITY; STABILITY; EXPOSURE; EMOTION; INFANTS

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