Brain Mechanisms of Reality Monitoring
Jon S Simons1, Jane R Garrison1, Marcia K Johnson2
1Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
Trends in Cognitive Sciences
|May 3, 2017
Summary
This study explores reality monitoring, the cognitive process distinguishing internal thoughts from external experiences. Understanding these mechanisms aids in identifying mental health conditions like hallucinations and developing potential treatments.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Psychology
Background:
- Reality monitoring is crucial for differentiating internal thoughts and external experiences.
- Errors in reality monitoring can range from normal cognitive byproducts to symptoms of mental illness, such as hallucinations.
- Recent research is advancing the neurocognitive understanding of reality monitoring.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide insights into the operating principles and neural mechanisms of reality monitoring.
- To understand how reality monitoring impairment occurs in both healthy and diseased states.
- To explore the potential for developing rehabilitation strategies for reality monitoring disruptions.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent advances in neurocognitive characterization of reality monitoring.
- Analysis of underlying operating principles and neural mechanisms.
- Examination of impairment patterns in health and disease.
Main Results:
- Emerging neurocognitive models offer insights into reality monitoring mechanisms.
- Understanding of how reality monitoring can be impaired in various conditions.
- Identification of potential avenues for rehabilitation strategies.
Conclusions:
- Neurocognitive research is enhancing our understanding of reality monitoring.
- This knowledge can inform the diagnosis and treatment of reality monitoring deficits.
- Potential exists for developing targeted interventions for individuals with significant reality monitoring disruption.
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