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Updated: May 20, 2026
13:04
Measuring the Subjective Value of Risky and Ambiguous Options using Experimental Economics and Functional MRI Methods
Published on: September 19, 2012
Neural correlates of feedback processing in decision-making under risk.
Beate Schuermann1, Tanja Endrass, Norbert Kathmann
1Department of Psychology, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin Berlin, Germany.
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience
|July 12, 2012
Summary
This study shows that brain responses to risk and reward differ based on decision-making. Event-related potentials (ERPs) like the feedback-related negativity (FRN) and P300 reveal how the brain processes varying risk levels during choices.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Psychology
- Decision Science
Background:
- Event-related potentials (ERPs) are crucial for understanding brain sensitivity to risk.
- Previous research indicates ERPs reflect risk processing, but specific patterns for varying risk levels require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how different risk levels influence decision-related ERPs, specifically the feedback-related negativity (FRN) and P300.
- To elucidate the neural mechanisms underlying risk assessment and reward processing during decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Twenty participants completed a probabilistic gambling task with low-risk and high-risk options.
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded to measure brain activity, focusing on ERPs like FRN and P300.
Main Results:
- Behaviorally, participants exhibited risk aversion, adjusting choices based on reward history.
- The P200 component was enhanced following negative feedback in high-risk choices.
- Significant differences in FRN amplitudes were observed for high-risk choices, particularly with positive feedback.
- P300 amplitudes were larger for high-risk decisions and modulated by feedback valence.
Conclusions:
- ERPs are significantly influenced by risk and valence processing during decision-making.
- The FRN suggests an increased reward prediction error signal after high-risk decisions.
- The P300 reflects both feedback valence and decision risk, indicating its role in processing the motivational significance of risky choices.
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