Lifestyle and Reaction Time

Presenter

Madison Ashley Morris

Campus

UMass Amherst

Sponsor

John Sirard, Department of Kinesiology, UMass Amherst

Schedule

Session 1, 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board C22, Poster Showcase Room (163), Row 3 (C21-C30) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The effects of both alcohol use and sleep restriction on reaction time are known to pose severe public health and safety concerns, but less is known about the combined effects of usual alcohol use and sleep restriction on a person’s cognitive functions (reaction time).  

PURPOSE: This study examined the associations among alcohol use and sleep with reaction time, controlling for other lifestyle factors, to add knowledge to this field and potentially aid efforts to limit the negative public health and safety consequences of decreased reaction times. 

METHODS: This study consisted of a cross-sectional online survey and in-person reaction time testing. The online survey was fielded in October 2023. Participants completed an online Qualtrics survey which measured different lifestyle factors, including physical activity, eating habits, drug and alcohol use, and sleep. Of the n=91 completed surveys, all participants were invited to perform the in-person vigilance and reaction time task; 26 in-person tests were performed. This data will be further analyzed to determine if any correlations exist between the lifestyle survey measures and reaction time.  

RESULTS: We expect a positive correlation between alcohol use and slower reaction time and a negative correlation between sleep and slower reaction time. We expect to see an even greater effect of both a lack of sleep and alcohol use on reaction time. 

CONCLUSION: The results of this study will support the conclusion that sleep restriction and alcohol use have an effect on one’s reaction time, emphasizing the public health implications of these lifestyle behaviors.  

 

Keywords

alcohol, sleep restriction, cognition, lifestyle

Research Area

Public Health and Epidemiology

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