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Effects of Olfactory Stimuli and Brief Relaxation Induction on Imagery

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Recent Practice and Theory

Abstract

Ninety-six introductory psychology students participated in an experiment studying the effects of olfactory stimulation and brief relaxation induction on qualities associated with imagery and perceived relaxation. Each subject imagined 10 images and rated the images on five dimensions. Each subject was in one of two levels of muscle relaxation and one of three olfactory states (2×3 design). ANOVA results indicated that odors which are congruent with images enhance several imagery qualities and odors which are incongruent can decrease these image qualities. The results suggest that congruent olfactory stimuli may be applicable to psychological interventions where increased imagery qualities, affective qualities and perceived relaxation are desired outcomes. Similarly, the results suggest that incongruent odors may be useful in driving away undesirable images when used in interventions when this is desirable.

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© 1986 Plenum Press, New York

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Faunce, W.D., Wolpin, M. (1986). Effects of Olfactory Stimuli and Brief Relaxation Induction on Imagery. In: Wolpin, M., Shorr, J.E., Krueger, L. (eds) Recent Practice and Theory. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4684-5146-7_15

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4684-5146-7_15

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4684-5148-1

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4684-5146-7

  • eBook Packages: Springer Book Archive

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