Changes in divergent thinking strategy due to creativity training: Findings from dynamic causal modelling

Abstract

Enhancing divergent thinking skills via creativity stimulation training has proven to increase performance in creativity, and caused changes in neuronal responses. However, the studies on effective connectivity between these regions has yet to be explored. This study aims to identify the most optimum connectivity model between left angular gyrus (AG), left precuneus (PCU) and medial prefrontal cortices (mPFC) during divergent thinking task in 36 healthy volunteers. All participants performed a behavioral alternative use test (AUT) and were divided into two groups, in which experimental group received creativity training, and control group were void of it. Both groups then underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data acquisition, in which participants were instructed to alternative use test (AUT) of the common household object visually projected to them in the MRI bore. Post-fMRI AUT assessment was also done. Data were analysed using Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM12) and Dynamic Causal Modelling (DCM12.5) software. Findings revealed full bidirectional connectivity between left AG, left PCU and mPFC during execution of alternative use generation. Creativity stimulation training has impacted in the change of input centre to be on left AG in the control group and mPFC in the experimental group, implying different divergent thinking strategies among participants who attended the creativity training.