Arithmetic Mismatch Negativity and Number Processing
Author Information
Author(s): Hsu Yi-Fang, Szücs Dénes
Primary Institution: University of Cambridge
Hypothesis
Is the arithmetic mismatch negativity (AMN) sensitive to incongruity in numerical information or to the violation of strategic expectations?
Conclusion
The AMN reflects general mismatch detection related to strategic expectations, and the numerical distance effect occurs independently of the AMN.
Supporting Evidence
- The AMN was enhanced in infrequent matching trials compared to frequent non-matching trials.
- The numerical distance effect was observed independently of the AMN.
- Participants showed less accuracy and slower responses in small numerical distance trials compared to large numerical distance trials.
Takeaway
This study looked at how our brains react when we see numbers that don't match. It found that our brains respond more when we expect a match but get a mismatch instead.
Methodology
Participants completed a number matching task while their brain activity was recorded using event-related potentials (ERPs).
Limitations
The study's findings may not generalize beyond the specific task and stimuli used.
Participant Demographics
16 adults, average age 26, 6 males, 3 left-handed, all neurologically healthy.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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