The association of caffeine consumption with positive affect but not with negative affect changes across the day

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Paper Summary

Conflicts of Interest

Identified Weaknesses

Rating Explanation

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Paper Summary

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Caffeinated Drinks Make Young Adults Feel Good, Especially in the Morning (But Less So With Friends)

This experience sampling methodology (ESM) study in young adults found that caffeinated beverages are linked to increased positive affect, especially shortly after waking and when tired, with weaker effects when around others. The study investigated the role of caffeine sensitivity, time of day, individual differences, and contextual factors, finding inconsistent results for negative affect.

Possible Conflicts of Interest

None identified

Identified Weaknesses

Limited generalizability due to restricted age range

The sample consisted solely of young adults (18-29), limiting generalizability to other age groups.

Gender-biased sample

More females participated than males and other genders, limiting generalizability.

Self-reported data and observational design

Self-reported measures introduce potential bias, and the observational nature of the study limits causal inferences.

Screening questionnaires instead of clinical diagnoses

Depressive and anxiety symptoms were assessed via questionnaires and are not comparable to clinical diagnoses.

Lack of detailed caffeine consumption data

The exact timing of caffeine consumption, presence of withdrawal symptoms before consumption, and whether a consumption was the first or subsequent were not assessed.

Lack of chronotype assessment

Participants' chronotype was not directly assessed, which could provide further insights into the circadian influences on the findings.

Rating Explanation

This is a well-designed ESM study examining caffeine's impact on affect in everyday life, addressing relevant moderators. Though limited by its young adult sample and observational design, the findings regarding tiredness and social context moderation are valuable. Key limitations are addressed, suggesting avenues for future research.

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