Energy in the Air and Psychological Work: Examining the Relationship Between Oxygen and Self-Regulation

Abstract

Evidence indicates that self-regulation relies on glucose as a limited energy source, such that self-regulation is impaired when glucose is lower and is improved when glucose is higher. Two studies examined whether levels of oxygen, the other primary energy for the brain, also influences self-regulation. While completing the Stroop task, participants breathed through a paper bag that either did or did not reduce oxygen levels (Study 1) or, while completing a measure of prejudice, participants breathed through a paper bag that either did or did not reduce oxygen levels and that either did or did not have increased oxygen flowing through it (Study 2). Results indicated that these manipulations of oxygen levels did not influence Stroop performance or prejudice. Minor fluctuations in oxygen levels thus do not appear to influence self-regulation.