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Frontoparietal theta stimulation causally links working memory with impulsive decision making
Georgia E Kapetaniou1, Gizem Vural2, Alexander Soutschek3
1Department of Management, Technology and Economics, ETH Zurich, Switzerland.
Summary
Synchronizing brain activity in the frontoparietal network enhances working memory. Disrupting this synchronization increases impulsive choices, suggesting this network is crucial for future-oriented decision-making.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Cognitive Science
- Decision Making
Background:
- Delaying gratification is linked to the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (dlPFC).
- The dlPFC is part of a larger frontoparietal network, but its role in decision-making within this network is unclear.
- Previous research has not fully explored the causal role of frontoparietal interactions in delay of gratification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the causal role of frontoparietal network synchronization in delay of gratification.
- To examine how modulating frontoparietal theta synchronization affects impulsive decision-making and working memory.
Main Methods:
- Utilized transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) at 5 Hz theta frequency to synchronize and desynchronize left frontal and parietal cortices.
- Participants performed an intertemporal choice task and a 3-back working memory task under in-phase, anti-phase, and sham tACS conditions.
Main Results:
- In-phase theta tACS improved working memory performance.
- Anti-phase theta tACS led to more impulsive choices and increased hyperbolic discounting of future rewards.
- Findings suggest a causal link between frontoparietal network synchronization and future-oriented decision-making.
Conclusions:
- Future-oriented decision making causally relies on synchronous activation within the frontoparietal network.
- Working memory processes within this network are integral to delaying gratification.
- Modulating frontoparietal synchronization offers a potential avenue for understanding and influencing decision-making behavior.
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