Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026
05:32
Comparing Eye-tracking Data of Children with High-functioning ASD, Comorbid ADHD, and of a Control Watching Social Videos
Published on: December 7, 2018
Cognitive control and conflict adaptation in youth with high-functioning autism
Michael J Larson1, Mikle South, Peter E Clayson
1Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Center, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA. michael_larson@byu.edu
Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, and Allied Disciplines
|December 20, 2011
Summary
Youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit atypical neural responses during conflict adaptation tasks, suggesting impaired cognitive control. This study highlights differences in electrophysiological markers, specifically the N2 component, between individuals with ASD and controls.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Psychology
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with cognitive control deficits impacting behavioral regulation.
- Conflict adaptation, the adjustment of cognitive resources after conflict, is a key aspect of cognitive control.
- The N2 event-related potential (ERP) component reflects electrophysiological correlates of conflict adaptation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate conflict adaptation using electrophysiological measures in youth with ASD.
- To compare cognitive control processes between youth with ASD and typically developing controls.
Main Methods:
- Utilized high-density electroencephalography (EEG) and behavioral data (response times, error rates).
- Administered a modified Eriksen flanker task to 28 youth with ASD and 36 typically developing controls.
- Analyzed event-related potentials (ERPs), focusing on the N2 component and conflict adaptation effects.
Main Results:
- Behaviorally, both groups exhibited similar conflict adaptation, though ASD youth showed increased response time slowing on switch trials.
- Controls demonstrated typical N2 amplitude modulation based on previous trial conflict.
- Youth with ASD did not show significant N2 amplitude differences related to prior conflict, indicating atypical neural processing.
Conclusions:
- Atypical N2 responses in youth with ASD suggest impaired neural mechanisms for conflict adaptation.
- Individuals with ASD may experience deficits in evaluating and adapting to cognitive conflict.
- Further research is needed to link these cognitive control differences to ASD severity and associated factors.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition marked by persistent deficits in social communication and interaction alongside restrictive and repetitive behaviors or interests. ASD is sometimes accompanied by intellectual impairment.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
These core symptoms manifest differently among individuals, ranging from mild to severe. The disorder's complexity extends beyond its clinical presentation, encompassing a diverse range of biological, cognitive, and sociocultural influences.
01:26Modeling in Therapy
Modeling, a key technique in therapy, uses observational learning to help clients acquire and practice new skills by watching therapists demonstrate desired behaviors. This approach, rooted in Albert Bandura's concept of vicarious learning, plays a significant role in therapeutic interventions for various psychological conditions, including social anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
Participant Modeling
Participant modeling involves therapists demonstrating calm and effective behaviors in situations...
01:24Revisionist Views of Adolescent and Adult Cognition
A revisionist approach to Jean Piaget's theory of cognitive development has brought new insights that challenge and reinterpret his established ideas. Piaget proposed that the formal operational stage, emerging in adolescence, represents the culmination of cognitive maturity. During this stage, individuals are said to develop abstract thinking, engage in systematic problem-solving, and show a form of egocentrism, believing others are as preoccupied with their behavior as they are themselves.
01:18Cognitive Development During Adolescence
During adolescence, individuals experience significant cognitive development that enhances their understanding of others' emotions and thoughts, known as cognitive empathy. This period is marked by an increased ability to adapt to others' perspectives and a more nuanced understanding of others' mental states, a skill that is foundational for social problem-solving and conflict avoidance. The development of cognitive empathy relies heavily on the theory of mind — the recognition that people have...
01:27Coping Strategies: Problem Focused
Coping strategies are methods people use to manage, tolerate, or reduce the effects of stressors. These strategies involve both behavioral and psychological actions to handle stressful situations. One common approach is problem-focused coping, which aims to change or eliminate the source of stress rather than merely addressing its consequences. This method involves taking direct action to resolve the issue causing stress.
For example, consider a student who struggles to understand their...
For example, consider a student who struggles to understand their...
01:30Information Processing Approach
The information-processing theory of cognitive development centers on fundamental mental processes, including attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Researchers in this field examine how cognitive abilities, such as working memory, evolve and influence children's overall development. Studies indicate that children with stronger working memory tend to excel in reading comprehension, math, and problem-solving compared to peers with less efficient memory skills. Low working memory is also...