Extraversion and cortical activation during memory performance

Abstract

In this study we analyzed the influence of the personality dimension extraversion–introversion (E) on the level and topographical distribution of cortical activation. In 62 participants (32 introverts and 30 extraverts), we measured the extent of Event-Related Desynchronization (ERD) in the EEG during performance of a short-term memory (i.e., temporary maintenance of information) and a more complex working memory task (i.e., temporary maintenance and active manipulation of information). The results indicate that during performance of both tasks, introverts display a larger amount of ERD than extraverted individuals. Moreover, the present E effects largely match previous studies as to the restriction of these effects to lower EEG frequency ranges (approx. 4–8 Hz). Topographical analyses show that the E effects are primarily present over (right-hemispheric) frontal and parietal regions of the cerebral cortex.