The Effects of Fragrance Instructional Set, and Boredom Proneness on Performance in a Vigilance Task

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of fragrance upon vigilance performance, stress, and workload. The role of subjects' expectations and boredom proneness upon vigilance performance were also examined. All subjects were assessed for fatigue, workload, and boredom proneness. Subjects were then randomly assigned to conditions based upon fragrance and instructional set. One group of subjects was given Peppermint enhanced air and the other was given unscented air. Half of the subjects in each group were told that the fragrance or air would help their performance, while the other subjects were told nothing about the effects of fragrance or air on their performance. All subjects then participated in a 45-minute vigilance task. Following the vigil, levels of fatigue, workload, and attention were evaluated. In the present study, fragrance failed to have an effect upon overall vigilance performance, workload, and fatigue levels. Decrements were found for correct detections and perceptual sensitivity. Response criterion levels as well as reaction time to correct detections increased throughout the task. In addition, subjects reported elevated levels of workload and fatigue after the vigil.