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The effects of task instructions on pro and antisaccade performance.
Alisdair J G Taylor1, Sam B Hutton
1Department of Psychology, University of Sussex, Falmer, Brighton BN1 9QH, UK.
Experimental Brain Research
|March 14, 2009
Summary
Strategic instructions significantly impact antisaccade task performance. Delaying responses improves accuracy and reduces errors, while speed or accuracy instructions affect latency without changing error rates.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- The antisaccade task measures goal-directed behavior and disinhibition.
- It is widely used in clinical populations to assess cognitive control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how top-down strategic influences affect antisaccade performance.
- To explore the impact of varying instructions on response latency and accuracy.
Main Methods:
- Two experiments were conducted, manipulating participant instructions.
- Instructions included delaying responses, responding quickly, or prioritizing spatial accuracy.
Main Results:
- Delaying responses increased correct antisaccade latency and reduced errors.
- Speed instructions led to faster responses, accuracy instructions increased latency, but error rates were unaffected.
- Delayed pro- and antisaccade tasks showed fewer errors than standard tasks.
Conclusions:
- Top-down strategies, particularly response delay, can modulate antisaccade performance.
- Findings inform models of antisaccade control and interpretation of clinical deficits.
