Conflict in a word-based approach-avoidance task is stronger with positive words.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Valence and motivational direction are linked. We approach good things and avoid bad things, and experience overriding these links as conflicting. Positive valence is more consistently linked with approach than negative valence is linked with avoidance. Therefore, avoiding positive stimuli should produce greater behavioral and neural signs of conflict than approaching negative stimuli.

Methods

In the present event-related potential study, we tested this assumption by contrasting positive and negative conflict. We used the manikin task, in which we read positive and negative words that they needed to approach and avoid.

Results

Consistent with our prediction, positive conflict prolonged reaction times more than negative conflict did. A late (500-1000 ms foll

SUBMITTER: Klackl J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10275559 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature