Comparison of children's inhibitory control, attention and working memory in three different throwing games: EEG exploratory study

Abstract

In this study we explore inhibitory control, attention and working memory differences, through EEG biomarkers, in three types of throwing games (simple throwing, throwing at a goal, and simultaneous throwing with another player). Encephalographic recordings were collected from 8 children aged 7-8 years during the performance of three throwing games. Theta (4-7Hz), alpha (7-13Hz) and low beta (13-20Hz) frequency spectra of different biomarkers associated with inhibitory control, attention and working memory were compared. Results of this exploratory study show that small modifications in playing conditions lead to significant demands on inhibitory control, attention and working memory. Action against an opponent attempting to disrupt the throw would require greater inhibitory control, as well as better focus of attention and greater use of working memory. On the other hand, simultaneous action against an opponent who has the same target might involve greater arousal and approach towards the target. The results show significant differences between the different games, with greater demands of inhibitory control in the games of throwing to goal (opposition with different roles) over the games without opposition or with opposition but with the same role (simultaneous throwing). These results show a new area of study and indicate the interest of analysing the characteristics of each game.