An early resolution of contingent negative variation (CNV) in the discrimination

This study investigates slow potential shifts that occur during a time discrimination task in man. Three experimental series were presented. In series A, each trial included a 5 sec standard interval (SI) followed by a 3 sec SI-TI delay and then by a 4.5, 5.0 or 5.5 sec test interval (TI). The subjects had to estimate whether SI and TI were equal or different and responded by pressing a left or a right button after TI. In series B, the response was postponed after a 3 sec pre-response interval (PRI) succeeding to TI. Series C established an easier discrimination: only 5 or 8 sec TIs were randomly presented in each trial and the subject had to Judge whether he had ben given the "short' or "long' interval. The intervals SI and TI, in which the subject had to collect temporal information, yielded a systematic pattern of slow potential shifts: CNV was followed by an early and prolonged resolution of negativity in the second half of the interval. By contrast, SI-TI delay and PRI only yielded a classical CNV. The "CNV-early resolution' complex appears as a typical feature of temporal tasks. Its possible relation with cognitive processes leading to temporal judgements is discussed, whereas the presence of the only CNV is interpreted as aN indice of expectancy.