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Reinforcement and Punishment Shape the Learning Dynamics in fMRI Neurofeedback
Manfred Klöbl1, Paul Michenthaler1, Godber Mathis Godbersen1
1Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
Frontiers in Human Neuroscience
|August 15, 2020
Summary
Positive punishment combined with positive reinforcement enhances neurofeedback (NF) learning. This training strategy may help individuals gain better control over brain activity, offering a new therapeutic avenue.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
Background:
- Real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) neurofeedback (NF) is a tool for studying cognition and treating psychiatric disorders.
- The influence of specific training schemes on NF learning dynamics remains under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how different reinforcement schedules affect the learning process in NF.
- To determine if positive punishment (PP) alongside positive reinforcement (PR) enhances control over brain activity.
Main Methods:
- Participants underwent NF training targeting the subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (sgACC) blood-oxygenation-level-dependent signal.
- Two groups received either PR only or PR combined with PP (negative feedback).
- Learning dynamics were analyzed by modeling feedback periods and trends across sessions.
Main Results:
- The PR + PP group exhibited faster initial learning, characterized by reduced sgACC deactivation and stronger regulation trends.
- Significant volitional control over sgACC activity was achievable with feedback, irrespective of the training group.
- Sustained control was demonstrated within and across training blocks, runs, and sessions.
Conclusions:
- Combining positive punishment with positive reinforcement may facilitate NF learning and volitional brain activity control.
- Error avoidance, as a motivational factor, complements reward-based learning in NF.
- This approach could enhance therapeutic outcomes by improving the ability to regulate brain function.
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