Internal control beliefs shape positive affect and associated neural dynamics during outcome valuation

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Neuroscience
• Cognitive Science

Background:

• Experiencing events as controllable is fundamental for human well-being.
• Classic psychological theory posits that internal control beliefs influence affective states and behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how internal control beliefs impact the affective valuation of task outcomes.
• To examine the neural dynamics associated with perceived control.
• To understand how control beliefs shape behavioral preferences.

Main Methods:

• Three empirical studies were conducted.
• Participants' affective responses to task outcomes were measured.
• Neural activity was recorded using functional neuroimaging.
• Behavioral preferences for control were assessed.

Main Results:

• Believing one caused an outcome increased positive affect, shifting towards pride.
• Neural activity in self-referential cortical midline structures, including the ventromedial prefrontal cortex, tracked outcome valence and internal control.
• Functional coupling increased between the ventral striatum and cortical midline structures.
• Pride predicted a preference for control, even when associated with monetary costs.

Conclusions:

• Internal control beliefs significantly shape affective valuation and neural responses to outcomes.
• Pride, driven by perceived control, is a key affective state linked to self-evaluation.
• Control beliefs are a crucial driver of intrinsic motivation and influence decision-making regarding future control acquisition.