Saccade trial type probability and its effects on residual inhibition and task switching costs

Abstract

Eye movement circuitry involved in saccade production offers a model for studying cognitive control: visually-guided prosaccades are reflex-like, while goal-driven antisaccades rely upon complex control processes. By manipulating the relative proportion of these saccade types, this study sought to illuminate differences in cognitive load and corresponding behavioral responses. Results indicated that prosaccade percent correct decreased when there was a smaller ratio of prosaccades in the run, yet antisaccade percent correct was constant across runs. Increasing probability of antisaccades in a run led to slower reaction times for both saccade types, particularly after a previous antisaccade trial. The effects of saccade type probability were investigated further by modifying the stimulus timing. With a shorter cue, the proportion of antisaccades in the run modulated antisaccade response characteristics. These findings suggest that residual inhibition from antisaccades alters performance based on the cognitive load, task switching demands, and stimulus timing within a run.