Extraversion and cortical activation during memory performance.
In this study we analyzed the influence of the personality dimension extraversion-introversion (E) on the level and topographical distribution of cortical activation. In 62 participants (32 introverts and 30 extraverts), we measured the extent of Event-Related Desynchronization (ERD) in the EEG during performance of a short-term memory (i.e., temporary maintenance of information) and a more complex working memory task (i.e., temporary maintenance and active manipulation of information). The results indicate that during performance of both tasks, introverts display a larger amount of ERD than extraverted individuals. Moreover, the present E effects largely match previous studies as to the restriction of these effects to lower EEG frequency ranges (approx. 4-8 Hz). Topographical analyses show that the E effects are primarily present over (right-hemispheric) frontal and parietal regions of the cerebral cortex.
Fink
A
A
Institute of Psychology, University of Graz, Universitaetsplatz 2/III, A-8010 Graz, Austria. andreas.fink@uni-graz.at
Grabner
R H
RH
Neuper
C
C
Neubauer
A C
AC
D000328:Adult; D002540:Cerebral Cortex / Q000502:physiology*; D005120:Extraversion, Psychological; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007439:Introversion, Psychological; D008297:Male; D008568:Memory / Q000502:physiology*; D008570:Memory, Short-Term / Q000502:physiology; D008875:Middle Aged; D011594:Psychometrics; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000502:physiology*