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The feedback-related negativity is modulated by feedback probability in observational learning
Stefan Kobza1, Patrizia Thoma, Irene Daum
1Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, Department of Neuropsychology, Faculty of Psychology, Ruhr University Bochum, Universitaetsstrasse 150, 44780 Bochum, Germany. stefan.kobza@ruhr-uni-bochum.de
Behavioural Brain Research
|August 18, 2011
Summary
Feedback expectancy modulates brain activity, specifically the feedback-related negativity (FRN), during observational learning. This suggests similar anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) functions in observational and active learning, but with unique contributions from other brain regions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- The feedback-related negativity (FRN) is an electrophysiological marker of anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) activity, sensitive to feedback expectancy in active learning.
- Observational feedback learning has shown reduced FRN amplitudes, prompting investigation into its modulation by feedback probability in this context.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the modulation of the FRN and P300 event-related potentials (ERPs) by feedback probability during observational learning.
- To compare FRN modulation in observational learning with findings from active learning paradigms.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-two participants observed a virtual agent making choices with positive or negative feedback.
- Electroencephalography (EEG) recorded event-related potentials (ERPs), including FRN and P300.
- Active test trials assessed learning of feedback probabilities; bias and empathy were also measured.
Main Results:
- Both FRN and P300 showed general modulation by feedback probability across all participants.
- An interaction between feedback probability and valence was observed for the FRN, specifically in learners.
- Larger FRN amplitudes for negative versus positive feedback occurred only at the lowest outcome probability.
Conclusions:
- Feedback expectancy influences FRN amplitude in observational learning, indicating a conserved ACC function across active and observational learning.
- The observed modulation, particularly at low feedback expectancy, suggests that brain regions beyond the core reward system contribute to feedback processing during observation.
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