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A study by Blume et al. (2019) examined the correlation between
neuroticism in symptom-free periods and the severity of depression in
SAD patients, revealing that higher neuroticism scores in summer
could predict more severe depressive symptoms in winter.
Additionally, the study found that SAD patients exhibit increased
neuroticism and decreased extraversion in winter compared to
healthy controls.
Individuals with SAD face several challenges, including:
Decreased Serotonin Levels: Those with winter-pattern SAD exhibit
lower serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter integral to mood regulation.
Cognitive Deficits: The lack of sunlight during winter months can
result in reduced vitamin D levels, which in turn diminishes serotonin
activity, affecting working memory, cognitive processing speed, and
motor coordination.
Personality Traits: Certain personality traits, such as neuroticism and
extraversion, may intensify the severity of SAD symptoms, with higher
neuroticism linked to more severe depression in winter.
Environmental Factors: The domestic setting plays a crucial role in
the mental health of individuals with SAD, with aspects such as
aesthetics, sensory experiences, social interactions, familiarity, and
climate exerting a significant impact.
Chapter 02: Research
EXPLORATORY RESEARCH - LITERATURE REVIEW
negative emotions to form strong connections with products and Understanding the influe
brands. Norman’s framework is composed of three interrelated levels on emotions is cru
that influence our perception and interaction with the world Disorder (SAD). The emotio
(Komninos, 2020): insights into how design can be leveraged to improve the emotional
Visceral Level: This level is concerned with the instinctual and well-being of users b
involuntary aspects of human emotions, which are deeply rooted and design elements.
largely beyond our conscious control.
In conclusion, emotional design seeks to create a comprehensive
Behavioural Level: This level deals with the subconscious product experience by consid
assessment of situations, leading to the development of purposeful elements can influen
strategies that are efficient in terms of time and activities required. ultimately lead
Reflective Level: At this level, individuals engage in conscious experience.
thought, reflection, and learning, forming innovative ideas and The figure below shows t
generalizations about the world (Komninos, 2020). designer to product to user.
These levels, while distinct, are interconnected and collectively shape
Research and Design Project
our overall emotional perception and interaction with our
environment. The visceral level relates to the initial impact of a design
and the emotional response it triggers. The behavioural level is
associated with the practical experience of using the product, often
linked to user experience. The reflective level involves the user’s
contemplation and analysis of the product , including thoughts and
considerations before, during, and after its use. Don Normand Emotional Design Principl