Neural correlates of spatial location mapping on the Simon effect

Abstract

Previous studies show that the effect of practice with incompatible location mapping results in a reverse Simon effect. However, the neural correlates of this phenomenon are yet to be clarified. This study used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to explore the neural correlates of the Simon effect after location mapping in 20 healthy young adults who are native English speakers. The results show that incompatible location mapping leads to reduced activation in the premotor, primary motor, supplementary motor area (SMA) and mid-cingulate cortex. As practice with the Simon effect reveals subtle changes in motor function, application of the Simon task in rehabilitation training programs is recommended.