Influence of the intensity of NaCl solutions on adaptation degree and recovery time course

The degree of adaptation and the time course of recovery after adaptation to NaCl solutions of various intensities were examined by magnitude estimation and simple sensory reaction time using a test stimulus of constant intensity. The results show that the degree of adaptation increased with the adapting concentration following a negatively accelerated function. Similarly, all recovery curves were negatively accelerated functions of the recovery time. The relation between the recovery constant (time necessary to attain two-thirds of normal responsivity) and adapting concentration approximates with both criteria more or less a linear function. Thus the recovery constant is a positively accelerated function of the degree of adaptation. The relationship between concentration and degree of adaptation can be approximated by Beidler’s equation of taste stimulation, while the time course of recovery can be expressed by an exponential equation that can also be related to Beidler’s theory. The two criteria used showed similar deteriorating effects of taste adaptation, indicating that reaction time can also be a useful criterion of the level of sensory responsivity.     

Are children reliable reporters?

Fifty children, ranging in age from 6 to 16 years, and their mothers were interviewed using the same structured interview, which in its content follows the usual psychiatric examination of a child. Their answers were compared and it was found that there was an 80% average agreement on all questions. The agreement (between child and parent) was highest on questions relating to factual information (84%) and the agreement (between child's interviewer and parent) was lowest in the section dealing with mental status (69%). Girls were more reliable informants than boys.     

A cognitive map of Slovenia: Perceptions of the regions

Cognitive maps present an important theoretical concept and methodological tool for the acquirement of insight into the mental image of the environment. Part of the study, conducted in 1999–2000 on a representative sample of the inhabitants of Slovenia (N = 1291), is presented in this paper, namely the part devoted to the perception of regions. Participants were questioned about different aspects of their image of Slovenia, including their preferences for residence in different parts of Slovenia, partition of the country into regions, travelling patterns, environmental problems and solutions, possibilities of development, etc. Cognitive maps appeared as highly selective, with certain general similarities, but also with individual idiosyncrasies, depending on the place of living and other demographic characteristics. Though respondents were not highly devoted to the formation of regions, a rather clear mental image of them appeared. Main findings are discussed and applicability of the cognitive map for planning purposes are substantiated.