Affiliation:
1. University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta Canada
Abstract
Several short auditory messages with different levels of distortion were presented to volunteer subjects under the influence of no, small, medium and large dosages of alcohol. Accuracy of perception as measured by the number of correct words and sentences was progressively worse in subjects with higher BAC levels. Thus, amount of alcohol produced corresponding reduction in the comprehension of distorted auditory stimuli. This does not support popular suggestions that use of drugs enhances perception and cognitive function. It is possible that substances that enhance personal significance of stimuli worsen social communication about these stimuli.