Shining a light on cultural neuroscience: Recommendations on the use of fNIRS to study how sociocultural contexts shape the brain.

Abstract

Functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a portable neuroimaging technique that may serve as a methodological tool for studying how sociocultural contexts can shape the human brain and impact cognition and behavior. The use of fNIRS in community-based research may (a) advance theoretical knowledge in psychology and neuroscience, particularly regarding underrepresented ethnic-racial communities; (b) increase diversity in samples; and (c) provide neurobiological evidence of sociocultural factors supporting human development. The review aims to introduce the use of fNIRS, including its practicalities and limitations, to new adopters inquiring how sociocultural inputs affect the brain. The review begins with an introduction to cultural neuroscience, and a review on the use of fNIRS follows. Next, benefits and guidelines to the design of fNIRS research in naturalistic environments (in the community or in the field) using a cultural lens are discussed. Strengths-based and community-based approaches in cultural neuroscience are recommended throughout. Public Significance StatementHow sociocultural environments shape positive aspects of cognitive and brain processes remains largely unexplored. The use of fNIRS neuroimaging can help inform theoretical frameworks by taking neuroscience to communities where research can be carried out in "everyday-life settings." The present article provides recommendations on the design of fNIRS research studies, including the use of strengths-based and community-based approaches.

Using functional near-infrared spectroscopy to study the early developing brain: future directions and new challenges

“…Furthermore, socially, culturally, or financially disadvantaged groups—those most at risk for experiencing socioeconomic and health challenges—are far less likely to participate in research. 6 , 21 To include previously underrepresented ethnic-racial and geographical groups in developmental research, 22 we must seek to reach out beyond lab-based settings.…”

Parent-child neural similarity: Measurements, antecedents, and consequences

“…Therefore, parent-child neural similarity can provide neurobiological insights into how parents' culturally shaped socialization goals are transmitted to their children. For example, researchers can investigate how parent-child neural similarity facilitates the intergenerational transmission of cultural values (Arredondo, 2023).…”

Increasing diversity in developmental cognitive neuroscience: A roadmap for increasing representation in pediatric neuroimaging research

“…A number of reviews have outlined strategies for recruiting participants from under-represented backgrounds, and overcoming mistrust commonly experienced by these communities in relation to scientific research ( Arredondo, 2021 , Bakhireva et al, 2020 , Haack et al, 2014 , Hartmann et al, 2014 , Rivas-Drake et al, 2016 , Rowley and Camacho, 2015 ). In Table 1 , we provide a summary of strategies researchers may use at each research stage (e.g., design, data collection, post-publication) to build trust within targeted communities.…”

“…Concerted efforts are needed to facilitate access and improve logistics that would increase participation in DCN studies for historically marginalized communities. Advancements in portable neuroimaging technologies (e.g., EEG, fNIRS, low field MRI) make it possible for researchers to travel to the community and collect data from participants in their home or local community, rather than only at university campuses or hospitals ( Arredondo, 2021 ). Establishing data collection sites that are located at convenient locations near the targeted community is a major advantage.…”