The relationship of approach/avoidance motivation and asymmetric frontal cortical activity: A review of studies manipulating frontal asymmetry

Kelley, N.J., Hortensius, R. , Schutter, D.J.L.G. and Harmon-Jones, E. (2017) The relationship of approach/avoidance motivation and asymmetric frontal cortical activity: A review of studies manipulating frontal asymmetry. International Journal of Psychophysiology, 119, pp. 19-30. (doi: 10.1016/j.ijpsycho.2017.03.001) (PMID:28288803)

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Abstract

The balance between activity in the left and right frontal cortex, commonly referred to as asymmetric frontal cortical activity, has served as a proxy for an organism's motivational direction (i.e., approach vs. avoidance). Many studies have examined the influence of the manipulation of motivational direction on asymmetrical frontal cortical activity and found results consistent with the idea that greater relative left (right) frontal cortical activity is associated with approach (avoidance) motivation. We critically review literature employing physical (versus psychological) manipulations of frontal asymmetry using a variety of methodologies including neurofeedback training, muscular contractions, and non-invasive brain stimulation. These reviewed methods allow us to make stronger causal inferences regarding the role of asymmetric frontal cortical activity in approach and avoidance motivation.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Hortensius, Dr Ruud
Authors: Kelley, N.J., Hortensius, R., Schutter, D.J.L.G., and Harmon-Jones, E.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Psychology & Neuroscience
Journal Name:International Journal of Psychophysiology
Publisher:Elsevier on behalf of International Organization of Psychophysiology
ISSN:0167-8760
ISSN (Online):1872-7697
Published Online:10 March 2017

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