A multifaceted approach into the effect of coloured environment on impulsivity using personality, behavioural and neurological methods.

The direct interplay between colour and impulsivity has yet to be researched despite growing interest and activity in the field. The implications of gaining a better understanding of this area helps: realise the impact of LED use in modern environments, address the lack of evidence in reported crime and impulsive psychopathologies relating to coloured light and builds an understanding of impulsivity as a testable concept. The comparison of personality, behaviour and neurological approaches were used to understand: The effect of colour on moods and personality traits associated with impulsiveness, how colour interacts with impulsive behaviours and to explore how colour alters brain activity relating to impulsivity.

Various methods were used in each approach: four self-report personality measures, two behavioural tasks and an electroencephalogram for information regarding brain activity.

Results from the personality approach indicated that participants felt more impulsive under red light. However results from behavioural and neurological approaches differed indicating that blue light caused increased bursts in a balloon analogue risk taking task and increases in frontal (F3, FZ and F3 position) beta wave activity. These both suggest an increase in impulsiveness. Faster reaction times in the blue go no/ go task condition hinted at better performance but may also be an indication of hampered behavioural inhibition. These findings are contrary to the traditional notion that long wavelength lights are stimulating and short wavelength lights are relaxing but do align with the effects observed when intrinsically photoreceptive ganglion cells are active.

It is recommended that until further empirically robust research is conducted, interventions relating to coloured environments effect on serious impulsive pathologies should not be implemented. Most prominently cases of blue light being used to reduce violent crime and suicide. The research also highlights the complexity of impulsivity, the difficulties in measuring it and the need to focus on sub-constructs in order to make accurate inferences about the effect of colour and impulsiveness in the future.