Neural oscillations are known to underlie the dynamic neural processes related to episodic memory. On the one hand, low-frequency delta waves have been seen to facilitate memory consolidation,...Show moreNeural oscillations are known to underlie the dynamic neural processes related to episodic memory. On the one hand, low-frequency delta waves have been seen to facilitate memory consolidation, while higher frequency alpha waves are associated with more engagement in autobiographical thinking (ABT) which interrupts consolidation. Neural oscillations can be modulated via rhythmic auditory stimulation, also known as binaural beats (BB). Several studies have found that BBs have potential for enhancing cognitive functioning, such as attention and working memory. However, little is known about the efficacy of BB entrainment with regard to episodic memory. In this study, we investigated the effects of listening to alpha (9Hz) and delta (0.5 Hz) BB on episodic memory performance in an old/new recognition task in a within-subjects design. Thirty-six participants underwent three rounds of encoding, each followed by an 8-minute delay during which they listened to either alpha, delta or control BB soundtrack, ending with a recognition test. During BB stimulation, participants also reported the frequency and intensity of ABT. Results showed that listening to alpha and delta BBs did not significantly alter subsequent memory performance, nor did it affect ABT. Additionally, no correlations were found between ABT and memory scores. We discuss limitations to our methods and offer ideas for future research.Show less
The study examines the relationship between theta/beta ratio (TBR) and mind wandering (MW), an important aspect in the domain of attentional control. Contemporary research suggests that high TBR ...Show moreThe study examines the relationship between theta/beta ratio (TBR) and mind wandering (MW), an important aspect in the domain of attentional control. Contemporary research suggests that high TBR (the ratio of power in the theta band to power in the beta band) can be used as an indicator of attentional lapses, i.e. MW. To investigate this notion, an experimental study was conducted. 79 participants completed a sustained attention task while brain activity was measured using electroencephalography. Additionally, it was examined whether TBR is associated with impeded resilience to emotional interference during a working memory task. Moreover, the role of fatigue as a secondary factor was investigated as it potentially further deteriorates MW. No significant relationship between TBR and MW or WM could be found. Further, TBR was not associated with working memory performance. Finally, fatigue was not correlated to MW occurrence. In conclusion, the relationship between TBR and MW could not be confirmed. However, this study is a step towards studying internal experiences without reliance on introspection.Show less
In this research the question was raised whether reading motivation was related to attentional processes during the reading of easy and difficult texts. Reading motivation was measured on a...Show moreIn this research the question was raised whether reading motivation was related to attentional processes during the reading of easy and difficult texts. Reading motivation was measured on a conscious and unconscious level. The unconscious reading motivation (measured with the attentional bias for reading related stimuli) and the conscious reading motivation were related negatively. People with a high attentional bias score for reading related stimuli did have lower scores for rating reading related stimuli. Although a relationship between the attentional bias scores and the frequency of mind wandering during reading hasn’t been found, there was a relationship between the scores for rating reading related stimuli and the amount of mind wandering while reading difficult texts. No relationship was found between participants’ rating of reading related stimuli and mind wandering while reading easy text. People who rated reading related stimuli more positive were mind wandering less often while reading difficult texts. Therefore, reading motivation seems to be related to the attention we have while reading difficult texts.Show less
