Frontal theta power linked to neuroticism and avoidance
Phoebe S-H Neo1, Neil McNaughton
1Department of Psychology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand. phoebe@psy.otago.ac.nz
Cognitive, Affective & Behavioral Neuroscience
|May 11, 2011
Summary
Approach-avoidance conflict and simple aversion both increase theta power in frontal areas. However, only aversion-related theta power correlates with neuroticism and avoidance, suggesting distinct neural processes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Affective Science
Background:
- Approach-avoidance conflict is hypothesized to induce negative affective bias via theta rhythms.
- This mechanism is considered distinct from the effects of purely aversive stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To differentiate the neural underpinnings of approach-avoidance conflict from simple aversion.
- To investigate the role of theta rhythms in these distinct processes and their relation to individual differences.
Main Methods:
- Experimental design manipulated gain and loss values to isolate conflict and aversion conditions.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) measured theta power in right frontal areas.
- Correlations were assessed between neural activity, behavioral avoidance, neuroticism, and gender.
Main Results:
- Both conflict and loss conditions elevated theta power in right frontal areas.
- Theta power during the loss (aversion) condition, but not conflict, correlated with avoidance and neuroticism.
- A significant Gender x Hemisphere interaction was observed for loss-related theta power.
Conclusions:
- Multiple aversive processing pathways converge within lateral frontal networks.
- Individual variations in frontal theta responses may predict behavioral and emotional reactivity to negative stimuli.
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