Individual differences in cognitive control: the role of psychoticism and working memory in set-shifting

Br J Psychol. 2009 Nov;100(Pt 4):629-43. doi: 10.1348/000712608X382094. Epub 2008 Dec 1.

Abstract

Set-shifting refers to a process of cognitive control which is shown through flexible behavioural adaptation to changes in task parameters or demands, such as the switching of an explicit rule (extra-dimensional rule shifting) or the reversal of a reinforcement-contingency (reversal-learning). Set-shifting deficits are widely documented in specific neuropsychological disorders, but seldom investigated in relation to normally-occurring individual differences. In a sample of healthy adults (N=78, 28% male), we demonstrate that Working Memory and trait Psychoticism have independent involvement in extra-dimensional rule shifting as measured using an analogue of the Wisconsin Card Sorting Test. Only Psychoticism, however, was involved in reversal-learning, as assessed using a recent modification of the Iowa Gambling Task. Individual differences in extra-dimensional rule shifting were explained in terms of rule abstraction speed, while individual differences in reversal-learning were explained in terms of response perseveration. These results clarify component processes in different forms of set-shifting, and highlight the role of individual differences, especially personality, in cognitive control.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Attention*
  • Female
  • Gambling / psychology
  • Humans
  • Individuality*
  • Male
  • Memory, Short-Term*
  • Motivation
  • Neuropsychological Tests / statistics & numerical data
  • Pattern Recognition, Visual
  • Personality Inventory / statistics & numerical data*
  • Psychometrics
  • Psychomotor Performance
  • Psychotic Disorders / psychology*
  • Reinforcement, Psychology
  • Reversal Learning*
  • Set, Psychology*
  • Young Adult