Baseline Emotional Valence Predicts Subsequent Executive Function Task Performance

Baseline Emotional Valence Predicts Subsequent Executive Function Task Performance

Alvin Sherman Library

Executive functioning (EF) supports goal-directed behavior and is influenced by affective state. While prior research has largely focused on the effects of emotional valence during task performance, less is known about the influence of pre-task self-reported valence on subsequent EF performance. Our ongoing study will examine whether self-reported ratings of emotional valence assessed prior to the start of a task will predict performance. Participants will report valence ratings during a resting baseline period before performing two EF tasks: the Vertical Stroop and the Go/No-Go. Performance will be assessed using reaction time and accuracy. Regression analyses will be conducted to examine the relationship between pre-task valence ratings and task performance. We hypothesize that resting-state valence will predict EF performance, such that more positive baseline valence will be associated with faster reaction times and/or higher accuracy. If correct, these findings will show that baseline affective states may influence executive control processes before cognitive demands are imposed.