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A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions
Published on: July 16, 2015
Evaluating models of working memory through the effects of concurrent irrelevant information
1Department of Psychology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA. jchein@temple.edu
Journal of Experimental Psychology. General
|February 4, 2010
Summary
This study investigated working memory mechanisms using brain imaging and behavioral tests. Findings reveal distinct neural effects for articulatory suppression versus irrelevant sounds, challenging current working memory theories.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Working memory is crucial for higher cognition, but its underlying mechanisms remain debated.
- Understanding working memory is key to explaining complex cognitive functions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate between competing working memory models.
- To investigate the neural and behavioral effects of different interference types on working memory.
Main Methods:
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to observe brain activity.
- Behavioral experiments manipulating interference timing (articulatory suppression, irrelevant speech, irrelevant nonspeech).
- Probed recall and delayed serial recall tasks.
Main Results:
- Articulatory suppression increased frontal/left-lateralized brain activity during item presentation.
- Irrelevant speech and nonspeech reduced activity during the delay interval.
- Articulatory suppression effects were strongest during item presentation, while sound effects were strongest during the delay.
Conclusions:
- Convergent evidence supports a dissociation between articulatory suppression and irrelevant sound interference in working memory.
- Findings challenge prominent theories of working memory by highlighting distinct interference mechanisms.
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