Who did what? A causal role for cognitive control in thematic role assignment during sentence comprehension

Abstract

Thematic role assignment – generally, figuring out who did what to whom – is a critical component of sentence comprehension, which is influenced by both syntactic and semantic cues. Conflict between these cues can result in temporary consideration of multiple incompatible interpretations during real-time sentence processing. We tested whether the resolution of syntax-semantics conflict can be expedited by the online engagement of cognitive control processes that are routinely used to regulate behavior across domains. In this study, cognitive control deployment from a previous Stroop trial influenced eye movements during subsequent sentence comprehension. Specifically, when syntactic and semantic cues competed for influence on interpretation, dynamic cognitive control engagement led to (a) fewer overall looks to a picture illustrating the competing but incorrect interpretation (Experiment 1), or (b) steeper growth in looks to a picture illustrating the correct interpretation (Experiment 2). Thus, prior cognitive control engagement facilitated the resolution of syntax-semantics conflict by biasing processing towards the intended analysis. This conflict adaptation effect demonstrates a causal connection between cognitive control and real-time thematic role assignment. Broader patterns demonstrated that prior cognitive control engagement also modulated sentence processing irrespective of the presence of conflict, reflecting increased integration of newly arriving cues with prior sentential content. Together, the results suggest that cognitive control helps listeners determine correct event roles during real-time comprehension.