title: Inhibit yourself and understand the other: neural basis of distinct processes underlying Theory of Mind.
abstract: Taking the perspective of somebody else (Theory of Mind; ToM) is an essential human ability depending on a large cerebral network comprising prefrontal and temporo-parietal regions. Recently, ToM was suggested to consist of two processes: (1) self-perspective inhibition and (2) belief reasoning. Moreover, it has been hypothesized that self-perspective inhibition may build upon basic motor response inhibition. This study tested both hypotheses for the first time using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), through administering both a ToM and a stop-signal paradigm in the same subjects. Both self-perspective and motor response inhibition yielded bilateral inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) activation, suggesting a common inhibitory mechanism, while belief reasoning was mediated by the superior temporal gyrus (STG) and temporo-parietal junction (TPJ). Thus, we provide neurobiological evidence for a subdivision of ToM into self-perspective inhibition and belief reasoning. Furthermore, evidence for partially shared neural mechanisms for inhibition in complex social situations and basic motor response inhibition was found.
authors: University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Neuroscience, Antonius Deusinglaan 2, P.O. Box 196, 9700 AD GRONINGEN, The Netherlands. l.van.der.meer@med.umcg.nl
authors: Lisette
authors: L
authors: van der Meer
authors: Nynke A
authors: NA
authors: Groenewold
authors: Willem A
authors: WA
authors: Nolen
authors: Marieke
authors: M
authors: Pijnenborg
authors: André
authors: A
authors: Aleman
mesh_terms: D001921:Brain / Q000502:physiology*; D001931:Brain Mapping; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007090:Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D007266:Inhibition, Psychological; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D056345:Theory of Mind / Q000502:physiology*; D055815:Young Adult