Non Visual Effects of Light: An Overview and an Italian Experience

Since the discovery of non-visual effect of light, consequences on human psychology and physiology have been investigated; however, effects on cognition of exposure to different spectral composition have been partially explored. Aim of this paper is an overview on researches developed in this field to compare general approaches and measurements protocols: the scarce knowledge of the physiological mechanisms, as well as the lack of shared methods, techniques, tools and procedures represent the weak point of this research. The impact of different procedures and experimental settings on results is shown, evidencing the need for scientifically consistent and internationally agreed procedures.