Abstract #142: Effects of High Definition tDCS on Problem Solving Networks

Abstract

Introduction: Idea generation stands at the heart of problem solving. People generate ideas by either having a sudden insight (implicit processing known as an "Aha! moment") or via a step-by-step analysis (explicit deliberation). Behavioral and neuroimaging studies demonstrated that these two ways of solving problems rely on distinct neural networks. Within the insight network, the right anterior temporal lobe has a critical role in the generation of novel associations and original ideas, whereas the left prefrontal cortex has a dominant role in explicit analytical deliberation. While progress has been made toward identifying the associated neural correlates of the idea generation phase during problem solving, its study thus far remains merely correlational. In the reported study, we adopt a causal approach by applying High Definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (HD tDCS) to the brain sites crucial for problem solving, with the final aim of facilitating problem solving by modulating the two networks (insight and analysis).