PARTICIPANT INFORMATION SHEET

Study Title: Personality differences in the perception of emotional stimuli

Researcher: Sarah Esser

ERGO (ethics) number: 31835





Please read this information carefully before deciding to take part in this study. It is up to you to decide whether or not to take part. If you are happy to participate you will be asked to give informed consent.

Who are we?

We are researchers from the University of Cologne and Southampton, investigating the relationship between perception, emotion, and personality.

What is this research about?

Our personality traits have a certain impact on how we perceive our environment and the way we process information. This study aims to investigate how different individuals diverge in their reactions to emotionally valent stimuli and the effect these reactions have on subsequent decisions.

Why have I been asked to participate?

`Because personality factors are an important part of this study, we have tried to reach people from a broad range of the general population.

What will happen to me if I take part?

The complete study is a computer based task in which you will first be asked to make simple decisions about emotional and non-emotional pictures (~15 minutes). Afterwards, you will be asked to complete a short questionnaire. This also comprises a few demographic questions (~ 10 minutes). Thus, the total time of the study is about 25 minutes.

Are there any benefits in my taking part?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will contribute to our understanding of the complex interplay between personality factors, perception, and behaviour.

Moreover, you have the option to participate in a raffle for 1 of 3 Amazon vouchers (1*20£, 2*15£ (or an equivalent in your currency)).

Are there any risks involved?

There are no significant risks involved in this study. However, it is not uncommon to experience some anxiety or concerns when completing questionnaires. It may be that some questions or stimuli will cause you to experience temporary feelings of negative emotions.

Such feelings should not last beyond the study, but should they do so, sources of advice and support include seeing your GP or local counselling service. If you have been affected by any of the statements or stimuli, please contact your GP.

If you wish to access help anonymously, here is a website for helplines in various different countries: http://togetherweare-strong.tumblr.com/helpline

During the computer based part of the study, you may feel your eyes getting tired. Several opportunities will be given to take a short break to relieve this feeling.

Will my participation be confidential?

Yes, your participation will be completely confidential. All data will be kept on a password protected computer. All data will be destroyed after the statutory time in accordance to the data protection act. There is no link to any personal data unless you want to participate in the voucher raffle, in which case you will be asked to enter you e-mail address.



What happens if I change my mind?

Your participation in this study is completely voluntary and you have the right to withdraw from the study at any time if you wish. You will not be penalised for doing so.

What will happen to the results of the research?

The results of this research may be used for publication and a copy of the results can be made available to you on request. Your anonymity is assured as published results will not include individual information on participants. All data will be kept on a password protected computer and all data will be destroyed after the statutory time in accordance to the data protection act.

Where can I get more information?

You can always contact me, Sarah Esser, via e-mail: s.esser@soton.ac.uk

What happens if something goes wrong?

If you have questions about your rights as a participant, or if you feel that you have been placed at risk, you may contact the Research Integrity and Governance Manager (023 8059 5058, rgoinfo@soton.ac.uk) or the Chair of the Ethics Committee Psychology, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ. Phone: +44 (0)23 8059 3856, email fshs-rso@soton.ac.uk



Thank you for taking the time to read the information sheet and considering taking part in the research.

Please confirm that you have read and understood the Participant Information Sheet and agree to participate.