There are two conditions that must be met in order for light exposure to reduce the symptoms of SAD. The first is timing. The exposure to light must be early in the morning. The second is brightness. (Full spectrum vs. partial spectrum does not make a difference as long as the light is sufficiently bright. Some of the early work compared grow lights to fluorescent bulbs.) I am not familiar with the brightness of tanning bulbs, so I am not sure if they produce sufficient brightness to have an effect, but I would guess that they do. They will not have an effect if the exposure occurs after the early morning hours. I can find references pretty quickly if you need them.
Dennis -----Original Message----- From: Rob Weisskirch [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Friday, September 24, 2004 1:09 PM To: Teaching in the Psychological Sciences Subject: Student questions A couple of student questions came up: What is the mechanism between light exposure and Seasonal Affective Disorder? In my superficial exploration, resources said any light will do. However, it was my impression that sunlight triggers the body to produce melatonin which influences the production of serotonin. Is there something specific about sunlight? Could the same be accomplished via a tanning salon? Also, does anyone know if Status Offenses would include underage lottery ticket buying, gun purchase, or getting a tattoo under age? (Sounds like the next Hollywood teen flick!) Thanks in advance, Rob Rob Weisskirch, MSW, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Human Development Department of Liberal Studies, Building 82C 100 Campus Center California State University, Monterey Bay Seaside, CA 93955-8001 (831) 582-5079 [EMAIL PROTECTED] --- You are currently subscribed to tips as: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED] --- You are currently subscribed to tips as: [EMAIL PROTECTED] To unsubscribe send a blank email to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
