Timing, sequencing, and executive control in repetitive movement production.
The authors demonstrate that the timing and sequencing of target durations require low-level timing and executive control. Sixteen young (M-sub(age) = 19 years) and 16 older (M-sub(age) = 70 years) adults participated in 2 experiments. In Experiment 1, individual mean-variance functions for low-level timing (isochronous tapping) and the sequencing of multiple targets (rhythm production) revealed (a) a dissociation of low-level timing and sequencing in both age groups, (b) negligible age differences for low-level timing, and (c) large age differences for sequencing. Experiment 2 supported the distinction between low-level timing and executive functions: Selection against a dominant rhythm and switching between rhythms impaired performances in both age groups and induced pronounced perseveration of the dominant pattern in older adults.
Krampe
Ralf Th
RT
Department of Psychology, University of Potsdam, Potsdam, Germany. ralf.krampe@psy.kuleuven.ac.be
Mayr
Ulrich
U
Kliegl
Reinhold
R
D000293:Adolescent; D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016014:Linear Models; D008297:Male; D009068:Movement / Q000502:physiology*; D009146:Music; D011597:Psychomotor Performance / Q000502:physiology*; D011930:Reaction Time / Q000502:physiology*; D012718:Set, Psychology