Noninvasive stimulation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex modulates rationality of human decision-making

Kroker, Thomas; Wyczesany, Mirosław; Rehbein, Maimu Alissa; Roesmann, Kati; Wessing, Ida; Junghöfer, Markus

doi:10.1101/2022.03.15.484390

Cited by 2 publications

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“…Furthermore, we showed that excitatory vmPFC tDCS resulted in less biased and, thus, more rational decision‐making and feedback processing compared to inhibitory stimulation (Kroker et al, 2022). Although in the preceding financial gambling studies we tested stimulation‐driven modulations of rather basic gain versus loss processing (Kroker et al, 2022a, 2022b; Rehbein et al, 2023), it has been proposed that the vmPFC is also involved in higher‐order reward processing (e.g., Hiser & Koenigs, 2018). Therefore, in the present study, we aimed to investigate whether vmPFC tDCS affects more complex or higher‐order feedback evaluation in addition to modulating basic gain versus loss processing.…”

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confidence: 99%

Higher‐order comparative reward processing is affected by noninvasive stimulation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex

Kroker,

Rehbein,

Wyczesany

et al. 2023

J of Neuroscience Research

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A crucial skill, especially in rapidly changing environments, is to be able to learn efficiently from prior rewards or losses and apply this acquired knowledge in upcoming situations. Often, we must weigh the risks of different options and decide whether an option is worth the risk or whether we should choose a safer option. The ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) is suggested as a major hub for basic but also higher‐order reward processing. Dysfunction in this region has been linked to cognitive risk factors for depression and behavioral addictions, including reduced optimism and feedback learning. Here, we test whether modulations of vmPFC excitability via noninvasive transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can alter reward anticipation and reward processing. In a financial gambling task, participants chose between a higher and a lower monetary risk option and eventually received feedback whether they won or lost. Simultaneously feedback on the unchosen option was presented as well. Behavioral and magnetoencephalographic correlates of reward processing were evaluated in direct succession of either excitatory or inhibitory tDCS of the vmPFC. We were able to show modulated reward approach behavior (expectancy of greater reward magnitudes) as well as altered reevaluation of received feedback by vmPFC tDCS as indicated by modified choice behavior following the feedback. Thereby, tDCS not only influenced early, rather basic reward processing, but it also modulated higher‐order comparative feedback evaluation of gains and losses relative to alternative outcomes. The neural results underline this idea, as stimulation‐driven modulations of the basic reward‐related effect occurred at rather early time intervals and were followed by stimulation effects related to comparative reward processing. Importantly, behavioral ratings were correlated with neural activity in left frontal areas. Our results imply a dual function of the vmPFC consisting of approaching reward (as indicated by more risky choices) and elaborately evaluating outcomes. In addition, our data suggest that vmPFC activity is associated with adaptive decision‐making in the future via modulated behavioral adaptation or reinforcement learning.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Higher‐order comparative reward processing is affected by noninvasive stimulation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex

Kroker,

Rehbein,

Wyczesany

et al. 2023

J of Neuroscience Research

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Risk and subjective rationality as decision-making factors in the professional activity of Police Officers

Masian

2023

Ûridičnij Časopis Nacìonalʹnoï Akademìï Vnutrìšnìh Sprav

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The relevance of the study is conditioned by the lack of development of the problem of forming the decision- making ability at the stage of professional training and the need to improve the modern daily practice of future law enforcement officers to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of decisions made against the background of a constant increase in the volume and complexity of incoming information. The purpose of the study was to determine the conceptual basis for the influence of subjective rationality and risk readiness in the decision- making system in the professional activities of police officers. The paper uses the method of comparative and correlation analysis, and statistical analysis of primary data. According to the results of the study, significant correlations were established between rationality and risk factors in decision-making among police officers in groups with different levels of experience and professionalism. The current study focuses on intra-group variations in risk maximisation and the use of rational traits, particularly vigilance, procrastination, avoidance, and over-vigilance in decision-making. These psychological phenomena are explained by studying the main group of law enforcement officers (n=116), divided by the sample according to the criterion of experience in practice (n=59, n=57). A significant difference and psychological difference in the decision-making process component was found between groups with and without practical work experience in law enforcement. This provides an opportunity for further expansion and development in this area, defining the main approach to creating professional skills, forming the ability to make decisions in law enforcement officers without practical experience, and consolidating the basic skills of law enforcement officers with practical experience. The practical significance of the study lies in the prospect of developing psychocorrective programmes and trainings aimed at various employees of law enforcement agencies, depending on the practical experience gained and the area of activity. The research materials can be used in the process of optimising the educational process in professional institutions

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Noninvasive stimulation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex modulates rationality of human decision-making

Cited by 2 publications

References 54 publications

Higher‐order comparative reward processing is affected by noninvasive stimulation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex

Higher‐order comparative reward processing is affected by noninvasive stimulation of the ventromedial prefrontal cortex

Risk and subjective rationality as decision-making factors in the professional activity of Police Officers

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