Abstract
Reinforcement Sensitivity Theory (RST) has been highly influential in evaluating neural correlates within learning, conflict, and emotional processing (1).
Neuroscientific research has paid specific attention to the Behavioural Inhibition System (BIS) responsible for conflict processing and its influences on behavioural anxiety (2; 3; 4)
Conflict can exist either as approach-avoid conflict (where two compelling outcomes are unable to exist concurrently) or avoid-avoid (where two undesirable outcomes are present).
Considerable volumes of EEG research have examined approach-avoid conflict, identifying theta-led biomarkers of anxiety (2; 3). The Goal-Conflict Specific Rhythmicity (GCSR) theta biomarker (5) has been shown to present at the right-frontal region, linking it to the pathophysiology of anxiety (6; 7) This has also been seen to extend into the alpha ranges, equally suggesting an involvement of alpha in approach-avoid conflict processing.
However, the exploration of avoid-avoid conflict has only just been examined with EEG. In the current study, we identify significant increases in right-frontal theta during high-conflict situations paired with increases in left-frontal alpha during low-conflict situations.
In addition, EEG coherence appears to be right-frontal dominated within the theta and left-frontal dominated across alpha.
These findings present a unique examination of the RST and suggest that avoid-avoid conflict manifests like the GCSR within EEG. However, it also appears to conflict with the neurological pathways said to drive the BIS (3).
The next stages for avoid-avoid conflict research should consider fully individualising the EEG waveband to assess individual variation in frequencies.
Additionally, psychometric assessments of personality should be used concurrently to assess behavioural traits, per previous literature. These integrations will support in developing a holistic intervention that can support in diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders.
Neuroscientific research has paid specific attention to the Behavioural Inhibition System (BIS) responsible for conflict processing and its influences on behavioural anxiety (2; 3; 4)
Conflict can exist either as approach-avoid conflict (where two compelling outcomes are unable to exist concurrently) or avoid-avoid (where two undesirable outcomes are present).
Considerable volumes of EEG research have examined approach-avoid conflict, identifying theta-led biomarkers of anxiety (2; 3). The Goal-Conflict Specific Rhythmicity (GCSR) theta biomarker (5) has been shown to present at the right-frontal region, linking it to the pathophysiology of anxiety (6; 7) This has also been seen to extend into the alpha ranges, equally suggesting an involvement of alpha in approach-avoid conflict processing.
However, the exploration of avoid-avoid conflict has only just been examined with EEG. In the current study, we identify significant increases in right-frontal theta during high-conflict situations paired with increases in left-frontal alpha during low-conflict situations.
In addition, EEG coherence appears to be right-frontal dominated within the theta and left-frontal dominated across alpha.
These findings present a unique examination of the RST and suggest that avoid-avoid conflict manifests like the GCSR within EEG. However, it also appears to conflict with the neurological pathways said to drive the BIS (3).
The next stages for avoid-avoid conflict research should consider fully individualising the EEG waveband to assess individual variation in frequencies.
Additionally, psychometric assessments of personality should be used concurrently to assess behavioural traits, per previous literature. These integrations will support in developing a holistic intervention that can support in diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages | 1 |
| Number of pages | 1 |
| Publication status | Published - 10 Sept 2024 |
| Event | British Association for Cognitive Neuroscience Annual Meeting, London, 10-11 September 2024 - City St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom Duration: 10 Sept 2024 → 11 Sept 2024 https://www.bacn.co.uk/conferences |
Conference
| Conference | British Association for Cognitive Neuroscience Annual Meeting, London, 10-11 September 2024 |
|---|---|
| Abbreviated title | BACN 2024 |
| Country/Territory | United Kingdom |
| City | London |
| Period | 10/09/24 → 11/09/24 |
| Internet address |