Cognitive effort devaluation and the salience network: a computational model of amotivation in depression.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Amotivation in depression is linked to impaired reinforcement learning and effort expenditure via the dopaminergic reward pathway. To understand its computational and neural basis, we modeled incentive, temporal and cognitive burden effects, identifying key components and brain networks of cost-benefit valuation.

Methods

Data from 43 psychotropic-free individuals (31 non- or minimally depressed individuals), including Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES), n-back task performance, and resting-state fMRI, were analyzed. Cost-benefit valuation was modeled using loss aversion, learning, temporal, and cognitive effort discounting factors. Model fitting and comparison (two-learning rate vs. two-temporal discounting) were performed. Pri

SUBMITTER: Park IH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12434043 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature