Failure to benefit from target novelty during encoding contributes to working memory deficits in schizophrenia.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Although working memory (WM) impairments are well documented in schizophrenic patients (PSZ), the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of target salience during encoding to determine whether impaired visual attention in PSZ leads to poor WM.

Methods

Thirty-one PSZ and 28 demographically matched healthy controls (HC) performed a spatial delayed-response task. Attentional demands were manipulated during WM encoding by presenting high salient (novel) or low salient (familiar) targets. Participants also rated their level of response confidence at the end of each trial, allowing us to analyse different response types.

Results

WM was impaired in PSZ. Increasing target salience by increasing novelty impro

SUBMITTER: Mayer JS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3945723 | biostudies-literature | 2014

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature