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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
10:38
A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions
Published on: July 16, 2015
Neural systems and time course of proactive interference in working memory
Yingchun Du1, John X Zhang, Zhuangwei Xiao
1Guangdong Key Laboratory of Medical, Molecular Imaging, Medical College of Shantou University, China. duyingchun@gmail.com
Summary
Proactive interference impairs working memory. This study used event-related potential (ERP) and sLORETA to find that interference resolution in working memory occurs earlier than in long-term memory.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Neuroimaging
- Memory Research
Background:
- Working memory capacity is limited by proactive interference.
- Neuroimaging studies have explored interference resolution mechanisms.
- The temporal dynamics of working memory interference resolution remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the time course of interference resolution in working memory.
- To determine if anterior P2 reflects interference resolution.
- To compare the timing of working memory versus long-term memory interference resolution.
Main Methods:
- Utilized event-related potential (ERP) methodology.
- Employed standardized Low Resolution Brain Electromagnetic Tomography (sLORETA).
- Examined brain activity during working memory tasks with interference.
Main Results:
- Anterior P2 component was identified as a potential neural correlate of interference resolution.
- Interference resolution in working memory was found to occur earlier than previously thought for long-term memory.
- sLORETA provided high temporal and spatial resolution for analyzing the process.
Conclusions:
- The anterior P2 may serve as an early indicator of working memory interference resolution.
- Interference resolution processes in working memory are temporally distinct from those in long-term memory.
- This research elucidates the temporal dynamics of cognitive control in working memory.
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