Abstract
The present study investigates the cognitive mechanism underlying the control of interference during dual-task coordination. Partially inspired by the conflict monitoring hypothesis, we test the assumption that dual-task interference is resolved by a top-down adaptation mechanism that is responsible for behavioural adjustments in the prioritisation of the coordinated tasks. In a series of two experiments, we measured conflict adaptation to the so-called Gratton effect—the decrease in dual-task interference following incompatible trials. In Experiment 1 the primary task was a low demand choice discrimination task, whereas in Experiment 2 the primary task was an updating task that imposes a continuous load on working memory. The secondary task was a tone discrimination task. Both experiments consistently showed that the response conflict of previous trial triggers top-down behavioural adjustments that reduce interference. We conclude that dual-task interference shows strong similarities to Stroop-like types of cognitive interference, namely in the way that suboptimal performance is dealt with by the cognitive system.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
