Flexible cognitive control : task, individual difference and practice determinants of functional neuroanatomy

Abstract

A defining feature of cognitive control is that it is reflexive - we can rapidly and flexibly adjust attentional processes and executive control over our thoughts and behaviour in response to changing internal or external demands. Working memory (WM) and inhibitory control are cognitive abilities at the core of this flexible cognitive capacity. This thesis presents a body of research, conducted with fMRI, which investigates the functional anatomy of these flexible cognitive control processes. Specifically, the thesis presents a number of focused examinations of dimensions on which cognitive control varies, namely: task difficulty; task practice; and individual differences, with a particular focus on whether and how the functional anatomy of cognitive control processes might respond to practice.