The Influence of Subjective Alertness and Motivation on Human Performance Independent of Circadian and Homeostatic Regulation

Healthy subjects showed that motivation varied significantly due to circadian phase and hours awake.

• Performance on tasks improved when alertness and motivation ratings were highest, independent of circadian phase and hours awake.
• There was a correlation between motivation and alertness ratings.
• The study analyzed 15 healthy subjects, aged 20 to 41, over a 2-week 28-hour forced desynchrony protocol.
• Subjects completed tests every 2 hours during scheduled wakefulness, measuring performance and self-reported alertness and motivation.
• Findings indicate that alertness and motivation may play critical roles in influencing human performance.

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