Interrupting the perception-action cycle reshapes serial dependence and sensory processing

Perceptual decisions are systematically biased by recent history, producing both attractive and repulsive forms of serial dependence. Previous work suggests that interrupting the perception-action cycle by omitting a response may reduce attractive biases and enhance repulsive ones, but the neural mechanisms underlying this effect remain unclear. Here, we investigated the EEG correlates of response-requirement effects in serial dependence during visual orientation judgments. Following noresponse trials, we confirmed reduced attractive and increased repulsive biases. In parallel, these trials elicited stronger evoked responses on subsequent trials and enhanced neural representations compared with response trials. These findings indicate that interrupting the perception-action cycle promotes a state of reengagement with current sensory input, reshaping the balance between attractive and repulsive serial dependence, and giving rise to distinct electrophysiological signatures.