Electrophysiological correlates of anticipatory task-switching processes

Psychophysiology. 2005 Sep;42(5):540-54. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8986.2005.00350.x.

Abstract

Recent studies show a differential switch-related positivity emerging before a switch trial and reflecting anticipatory task-set reconfiguration processes. In this study, the switch-related positivity was examined in a cued task-switching paradigm. Cue-stimulus and response-stimulus intervals were independently manipulated to dissociate between the effects of anticipatory preparation and passive dissipation of task-set interference. Reaction time switch cost declined with increasing cue-stimulus and response-stimulus intervals, suggesting a contribution from both active preparation and passive interference processes. In cue-related difference waveforms, a switch positivity peaked around 350-400 ms and is interpreted as reflecting differential activation of task-set reconfiguration. In stimulus-related difference waveforms, a switch-related negativity is believed to indicate the role of S-R priming and response interference in task-switching.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attention / physiology*
  • Cerebral Cortex / physiology
  • Contingent Negative Variation / physiology*
  • Electroencephalography*
  • Female
  • Functional Laterality / physiology
  • Generalization, Stimulus / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pattern Recognition, Visual / physiology*
  • Psychomotor Performance / physiology*
  • Reaction Time / physiology
  • Set, Psychology*