Learning and the Sense of Agency
Author Information
Author(s): James W. Moore, Anthony Dickinson, Paul C. Fletcher
Primary Institution: University of Cambridge
Hypothesis
Does associative learning influence the sense of agency (SoA) and its relationship with schizotypy?
Conclusion
The study found that surprise enhances the sense of agency, particularly in individuals with lower schizotypy scores.
Supporting Evidence
- Training with surprising outcomes enhanced the temporal binding of actions and tones.
- Higher schizotypy scores were associated with reduced sensitivity to the effects of surprise.
- The study used a well-established outcome blocking procedure to assess learning mechanisms.
Takeaway
When things happen unexpectedly, it can make us feel more in control of our actions. This study looked at how this feeling is connected to certain personality traits.
Methodology
Participants performed an outcome blocking procedure to assess the influence of surprise on the sense of agency.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the small sample size and the exclusion of one participant.
Limitations
The effects of training were only observed in late test trials, and the sample size was small.
Participant Demographics
16 right-handed participants (11 female; mean age = 25 years).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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