The sustained “Attention to Response Test” (SART) is used to measure:

Correct option is B

The Sustained Attention to Response Test (SART) is primarily used to measure mental fatigue. This test is designed to evaluate how well an individual can maintain focus and attention over an extended period, which directly correlates with mental fatigue. In the SART, participants are asked to respond to a series of stimuli (often visual) while inhibiting responses to certain targets, which challenges their attention span and cognitive resources. As the test progresses, mental fatigue can set in, which is reflected in a decrease in accuracy or reaction time. Therefore, it is used as a tool to assess how sustained mental effort impacts cognitive performance.
Information Booster:
· Mental Fatigue: Mental fatigue refers to a decrease in cognitive performance due to prolonged mental activity or stress. The SART specifically measures attention, sustained concentration, and the ability to inhibit responses. As mental fatigue increases, an individual’s ability to focus and respond accurately diminishes.
· Use of SART: SART is often used in research related to attention and cognitive decline, particularly in understanding how mental resources are exhausted over time during continuous cognitive tasks. It is also used in studies involving conditions like sleep deprivation, where mental fatigue is a key factor.
Additional Knowledge on Incorrect Options:
· (a) Visual Fatigue: While the SART involves visual stimuli, it is not specifically designed to measure visual fatigue. Visual fatigue refers to strain or discomfort related to prolonged visual tasks like reading or screen time, which is not the primary focus of the SART.
· (c) Physical Discomfort: SART does not measure physical discomfort, as it is a cognitive task focused on attention and mental processing. Physical discomfort typically refers to sensations like pain or physical strain, which is not assessed by this test.
· (d) Postural Deviation: Postural deviation refers to abnormalities in body posture. The SART does not measure physical posture but instead evaluates the mental effort required to maintain attention over time. Therefore, it is not related to postural deviations.