EEG correlates of cognitive load in a multiple choice reaction task.

EEG correlates of cognitive load in a multiple choice reaction task.
Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars). 2020;80(1):76-89
Authors: Schapkin SA, Raggatz J, Hillmert M, Böckelmann I
Abstract
The present study aimed to examine EEG correlates of cognitive load in a task, in which multiple stimulus‑response mappings have to be maintained in working memory (WM) combined with selective inhibition of irrelevant stimulus‑response mappings on every trial. Twenty‑four healthy younger adults had to perform choice reaction tasks differed in the number of S‑R mappings and motor response requirements. Performance was lower in the high load than in the low load condition. Performance decline at higher WM loads was accompanied by an increase of EEG power in delta, theta, and beta frequency bands and by a reduction in alpha band. The effect on alpha was generalized across all the electrodes. Correlations between EEG and performance were observed in the high load condition but not in the low load condition. Theta activity negatively correlated with reaction time, whereas positive correlations between beta activity and reaction time were found. The two frequency bands negatively correlated with each other at all electrodes. The results suggest that changes in alpha and theta power may be considered as the most sensitive indicators of cognitive load. The alpha reduction may be related to activation of widespread cortical areas which were recruited for pe...

Source: Acta Neurobiologiae Experimentalis - March 28, 2020 Category: Neurology Authors: Schapkin SA, Raggatz J, Hillmert M, Böckelmann I Tags: Acta Neurobiol Exp (Wars) Source Type: research