Stress and Memory Performance: Exploring the Role of Gender: No Gender Differences in the Effects of Stress on Memory

Stress has been shown to impair cognitive performance, including spatial memory and exploration. In addition, stress may influence response style, thereby affecting memory task outcomes. However, findings regarding gender differences remain inconsistent: Results are inconsistent, as some research shows that males explore more efficiently, while other research indicates that exploration is more efficient in females. Moreover, evidence on stress effects on spatial memory and gender differences are mixed. Therefore, the present study examined the effects of subjective, acute stress on spatial memory performance, while also assessing exploration behavior, response style and gender differences. To assess this, 99 participants (mean age = 22.2) completed a virtual landmark task under a controlled stress induction: The Sing-a-Song-Stress-Test (SSST) in which the experimental group were unexpectedly supposed to sing a song, which would be recorded. Although the SSST successfully increased...Show moreStress has been shown to impair cognitive performance, including spatial memory and exploration. In addition, stress may influence response style, thereby affecting memory task outcomes. However, findings regarding gender differences remain inconsistent: Results are inconsistent, as some research shows that males explore more efficiently, while other research indicates that exploration is more efficient in females. Moreover, evidence on stress effects on spatial memory and gender differences are mixed. Therefore, the present study examined the effects of subjective, acute stress on spatial memory performance, while also assessing exploration behavior, response style and gender differences. To assess this, 99 participants (mean age = 22.2) completed a virtual landmark task under a controlled stress induction: The Sing-a-Song-Stress-Test (SSST) in which the experimental group were unexpectedly supposed to sing a song, which would be recorded. Although the SSST successfully increased subjective stress, results showed no effects of stress, exploration behavior or response style on spatial memory performance. No gender differences were found. Future research should aim to use more effective or long-lasting stress manipulation, compare different ages and induce the stress manipulation during the navigation task. This highlights the importance for professionals exposed to mild acute stress, to understand that mild acute stress does not necessarily impact spatial memory and training should focus on more extreme stress effects.Show less

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Stress and Memory Performance: Exploring the Role of Gender: No Gender Differences in the Effects of Stress on Memory