Cognition After a Disaster: Age, Working Memory, and the Pictorial Superiority Effect
Author Information
Author(s): Cherry Katie, Bordes Piper, McKneely Katelyn, Elliott Emily, Calamia Matthew
Primary Institution: Louisiana State University
Hypothesis
How do disaster exposures affect cognitive performance in adults?
Conclusion
Disaster exposures do not seem to disrupt performance on traditional cognitive measures.
Supporting Evidence
- Participants were tested immediately after the flood and again 9 months later.
- Results showed a memorial advantage of pictures over words in free recall.
- Self-reported cognitive deficits were related to flood stressors.
Takeaway
This study looked at how people remember pictures and words after experiencing a disaster, and found that seeing pictures helps people remember better.
Methodology
Participants completed memory tests and self-report measures of cognition and emotion after experiencing a disaster.
Limitations
The study primarily involved middle-aged and older adults from specific parishes, which may limit generalizability.
Participant Demographics
Mostly middle-aged and older adults from three parishes in Baton Rouge, LA.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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