Motivation is associated with electrophysiological markers, such as awake state delta oscillation and frontal alpha asymmetry, as well as event-related potentials, such as error-related negativity, feedback-related negativity, and prepulse inhibition. These indicators provide an objective measure of motivational deficits in psychiatric conditions, and response to treatment. Also, these modalities of brain activities are drawing attention as a target of neurofeedback training. The aim of this article is to provide a brief overview on electrophysiological findings relevant to the understanding of the mechanisms underlying impaired motivation in psychiatric disorders and clinical practice.
Keywords: electroencephalogram; event related potentials; motivation; prepulse inhibition; psychosis.