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Does conflict resolution rely on working memory?
Melissa E Moss1, Atsushi Kikumoto1, Ulrich Mayr1
1Department of Psychology.
Journal of Experimental Psychology. Learning, Memory, and Cognition
|January 10, 2020
Summary
This study investigated if working memory and conflict resolution share cognitive resources. Findings showed minimal evidence for shared resources between these cognitive functions.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Theoretical work suggests working memory and conflict resolution are linked.
- However, direct evidence for shared cognitive resources is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the interaction between working memory load and conflict resolution.
- To determine if overcoming conflict impacts working memory maintenance and vice versa.
Main Methods:
- Employed a dual-task paradigm across four experiments.
- Independently manipulated working memory load and conflict level using auditory Stroop and visual change detection tasks.
Main Results:
- No consistent interaction was observed between conflict level and working memory load on working memory performance.
- Limited evidence suggested a small effect of conflict on auditory Stroop accuracy, but not response times.
Conclusions:
- The study provides weak evidence for the hypothesis that working memory is critical for conflict resolution.
- Suggests limited shared cognitive resources between working memory maintenance and conflict resolution.
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