ИСТИНА

In our previous study the method for testing of allocentric cognitive maps (ACM) acquisition was developed (Lakhtionova, Menshikova, 2013, Perception, 42, 53). We applied the method to investigate the influence of negatively valenced states (fear) on the ACM structure. Two virtual mazes were created. Each maze consisted of 12 rooms having the same sizes and wall textures, but different mutual arrangement in space. Fearful sounds were enabled while the observer was passing some rooms of the second maze. Mazes were presented using the CAVE system. 26 observers (age range 18—23) were tested. Their task was to go through all rooms and remember their arrangement. After passing each maze the observers were asked to use the interface consisted of rectangles and door symbols which could be located on the interface screen and varied in accordance with acquired ACM. The degree of ACM deformations caused by fearful sounds was estimated by comparing ACM of both mazes including the number and sizes of correctly located rooms/doors. The results showed the influence of negative emotions on ACM acquisition: the perceived sizes and mutual arrangement of rooms were changed for the maze where fearful sounds were enabled.