Measuring sensory perception in relation to consumer behavior

In contemporary practice, much of the work sensory scientists conduct implicitly or explicitly makes four key assumptions. First, we assume that we can measure the sensations a product elicits accurately. Second, we assume we can quantify the pleasure derived from a product accurately. Third, we assume that pleasure derived from a product is a key driver of product use. Finally, we assume that we can measure consumption behavior (purchase, intake, etc.) accurately. More broadly, these assumptions can be thought of as a broader causal chain, starting with formulation and ending with use or consumption (Fig. 3.1a). Finally, those of us with an interest in health and wellness may add a fifth element, consequences of use or consumption at the far end of the chain. 

Rapid Sensory Profiling Techniques and Related Methods. http //dx.doi.Org/10.1533/9781782422587.l.53 

Although sensory evaluation began as an applied discipline independent from psychology, contemporary sensory science is strongly informed by psychophysics, the oldest branch of experimental psychology (see References [9-11]). Psychophysics refers to the quantitative study of the relationship between physical stimuli of known energy levels, and the sensations these stimuli produce. While these relationships were smdied in their own right for many years to understand human performance, many of the same methods can be readily apphed by the sensory practitioner to better understand products. 

For many years, academic psychophysicists assumed direct scaling of stimulus intensity was impossible, as sensations only occur within the mind of the observer 

Rapid Sensory Profiling Techniques and Related Methods 

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Measuring sensory perception in relation to consumer behavior... 

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