Electrophysiological correlates of anticipatory task‐switching processes

Abstract

Recent studies show a differential switch-related positivity emerging before a switch trial and reflecting anticipatory task-set reconfiguration processes. In this study, the switch-related positivity was examined in a cued task-switching paradigm. Cue-stimulus and response-stimulus intervals were independently manipulated to dissociate between the effects of anticipatory preparation and passive dissipation of task-set interference. Reaction time switch cost declined with increasing cue-stimulus and response-stimulus intervals, suggesting a contribution from both active preparation and passive interference processes. In cue-related difference waveforms, a switch positivity peaked around 350-400 ms and is interpreted as reflecting differential activation of task-set reconfiguration. In stimulus-related difference waveforms, a switch-related negativity is believed to indicate the role of S-R priming and response interference in task-switching.