Frontal theta power linked to neuroticism and avoidance

Abstract

Approach-avoidance conflict is thought to generate negative affective bias, mediated by theta rhythms. This process is distinct from, and adds to, the effects of simple aversive input. We assessed this distinction by holding gain constant and increasing loss value so that conflict and simple aversion peaked in the conflict (gain equals loss) and loss (net loss) conditions, respectively. Right frontal areas showed increases in both conflict- and loss-induced theta power. However, loss, but not conflict, power was correlated with avoidance and neuroticism, showing a Gender x Hemisphere interaction. We concluded that multiple aversive processes converge in lateral frontal networks and that individual differences in theta response in these networks may reflect differences in behavioural and emotional reactivity to aversive events. © 2011 Psychonomic Society, Inc.