Habituation and laterality of orienting processes as reflected by slow negative waves

Author(s): Demmel, R.

Journal/Book: Biol Psychol. 2000; 53: PO Box 211, 1000 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands. Elsevier Science Bv. 161-176.

Abstract: The study is concerned with the question of whether the orienting wave (O-wave), a slow potential shift of the event-related brain potential, is a component of the orienting response (OR). As habituation is supposed to be the most important characteristic of the OR, we focussed particularly on any habituating aspect of the O-wave. Results suggest that its bilateral distribution over midfrontal areas might constitute such a link relating the O-wave to orienting activity. Hemispheric asymmetry linearly decreased its right-sided predominance in response to repeated presentations of an initially novel auditory stimulus. A similar. Concomitant diminution of the skin conductance response (SCR) occurred. Both, the O-wave and the SCR varied. Moreover, with signal value and electrodermal lability which are known to relate to the OR. Therefore we suggest the O-wave comprise features typical of a component of the OR. A hypothesis is put forward according to which the O-wave and its laterality are dependent on the ascending noradrenergic locus coeruleus system.

Note: Article Zimmer H, Univ Mainz, Inst Psychol, D-55099 Mainz, GERMANY

Keyword(s): electrodermal lability; event-related slow negative waves; habituation; hemispheric asymmetry; locus coeruleus; stimulus significance; BRAIN POTENTIALS; ASYMMETRIES; COMPONENTS; ATTENTION; MOTOR

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