ABSTRACT
The mistrust that stems from multiple false alarms has led researchers to acknowledge the need to investigate human mistrust of alarm systems, or the ‘cry-wolf’ effect. In particular, scientists have struggled to understand the physiological bases for the cry-wolf effect, as well as the behavioural and system-related factors that influence alarm mistrust. Along with the growing acknowledgment of the problem, there have been a number of researchers engaged in laboratory research to examine factors related to alarm mistrust. In contrast to written warnings, the default action for an alarm is usually some sort of behavioural response such as alarm cancellation or remediation of the problem. There are many applied situations where alarm and/or ongoing task criticality may be seen to fluctuate. Alarm urgency was varied within groups. In real-world complex task situations, true alarms reflect varying degrees of consequences if not responded to in a timely manner.
