Processing speed predicts mean performance in task-switching but not task-switching cost

Li, B., Li, X., Stoet, G. and Lages, M. (2023) Processing speed predicts mean performance in task-switching but not task-switching cost. Psychological Reports, 126(4), pp. 1822-1846. (doi: 10.1177/00332941211072228) (PMID:35084254)

Abstract

In several studies, it has been suggested that task-switching performance is linked to processing speed. Here we argue that the relation between processing speed and high-level cognitive ability found in previous studies may be due to confounded measurements of processing speed and task-switching ability. In the present study, we required participants to complete an inspection time (IT) task to probe their processing speed. We employed conventional task-switching paradigms but applied a linear integrated speed-accuracy score (LISAS) which combines latency and accuracy scores to express task-switching ability. The results of regression analyses show that IT predicted average performance in task-switching paradigms. However, IT did not relate to any specific effects common in the task-switching task, which contradicts previous results. Our results suggest independent mechanisms of processing speed and tasks that require a high level of cognitive flexibility and control.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Lages, Dr Martin
• Authors: Li, B., Li, X., Stoet, G., and Lages, M.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Robertson Centre; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Psychology & Neuroscience
• Journal Name: Psychological Reports
• Publisher: SAGE
• ISSN: 0033-2941
• ISSN (Online): 1558-691X
• Published Online: 27 January 2022
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © The Author(s) 2022
• First Published: First published in Psychological Reports 126(4):1822-1846
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy