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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Dec 31, 2025

A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions

A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions

Published on: July 16, 2015

Working memory can compare two visual items without accessing visual consciousness.

Shun Nakano¹, Masami Ishihara¹

¹Department of Human Sciences [Psychology], Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minamiosawa, Hachioji, Tokyo 192-0397, Japan.

Consciousness and Cognition

|January 3, 2020

Summary

This study investigated if the central executive function can be activated unconsciously. Results suggest unconscious activation is possible, but dependent on subjective awareness thresholds.

Keywords:

Delayed match-to-sample task Unconscious cognitive process Visual working memory

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Last Updated: Dec 31, 2025

A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions

A Cognitive Paradigm to Investigate Interference in Working Memory by Distractions and Interruptions

Published on: July 16, 2015

A Two-interval Forced-choice Task for Multisensory Comparisons

A Two-interval Forced-choice Task for Multisensory Comparisons

Published on: November 9, 2018

Development of a Gaze-Contingent Display Framework Designed for Perceptual and Oculomotor Research with Simulated Central Vision Loss

Development of a Gaze-Contingent Display Framework Designed for Perceptual and Oculomotor Research with Simulated Central Vision Loss

Published on: April 11, 2025

Area of Science:

Cognitive Psychology
Neuroscience
Consciousness Studies

Background:

Unconscious visual information can access working memory.
The role of unconscious processes in central executive function remains unclear.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate whether the central executive, a key component of cognitive control, can be activated unconsciously.
To determine the threshold for subjective awareness in relation to central executive activation.

Main Methods:

A delayed match-to-sample task was employed.
Participants compared the locations of visual targets, some of which were masked.
A visual masking paradigm was used to manipulate target visibility.

Main Results:

Participants performed above chance when comparing two unconscious targets.
Performance dropped to chance level when trials lacking subjective awareness were excluded.
This indicates a reliance on conscious experience for sustained performance.

Conclusions:

The central executive can be activated by stimulus signals below the threshold of subjective report.
Conscious awareness plays a critical role in the reliable functioning of the central executive.
Findings contribute to understanding the interplay between unconscious processing and executive functions.