Effect of Emotions on Visuospatial abilities

Abstract

Social relationships play an essential role where in recognizing expressions and judging body
language of an individual is the key for a smooth interaction. The current study examines the
effect of positive and negative emotions on visuospatial abilities inhealthy adults. To assess
visuospatial ability Raven’s Standard Progressive Matrices was employed. Emotional states were
induced amongst participants and then post test scores of SPM were analysed. The results show
that there is a significant difference in the effect positive and negative emotions have on
visuospatial abilities. The visuospatial performance declines when an individual is experiencing
negative emotions and it improves when the individual is experiencing positive emotions. The
study has key implications over how affect can modulate ordinary spatial behaviour of a person.