Dual-task performance is differentially modulated by rewards and punishments

Stress improves task processing efficiency in dual-tasks

“…If the effects of stress are similar to the effects of punishments [cf. 22] we expect that stress modulated reaction times in short SOAs in the unpredictable task block, only.…”

“…Against this background it is therefore more likely that stress increases dual-tasking performance, i.e., leads to faster reaction times on task two in short SOAs. However, the recent study by Yildiz et al [22] suggest that modulatory effects were only evident in an experimental condition, where the task order was unpredictable. In the current study we therefore examine the effect of stress in two blocks, where task order is either predictable or unpredictable.…”

“…We used a PRP paradigm that is identical to the paradigm used in a previous study by our group investigating the effects of rewards on dual-task performance [22]. The paradigm comprised of two tasks: a "tone task" (task 1) and a "letter task" (task 2).…”

“…Response control processes, as examined using the PRP, have been shown to depend on dopaminergic neural transmission and fronto-striatal networks [e.g., [19][20][21]. Very recent results indicate that dual-task performance is rendered more efficient under conditions, where punishment feedback is provided in case of slow reaction times [22]. Yildiz et al [22] showed that reaction times on the second task are faster, when punishment is provided in case of slow reactions.…”

“…Very recent results indicate that dual-task performance is rendered more efficient under conditions, where punishment feedback is provided in case of slow reaction times [22]. Yildiz et al [22] showed that reaction times on the second task are faster, when punishment is provided in case of slow reactions. Opposed to this they showed that rewards were not able to speed up responses on the second task, but rather led to a slowing of responses.…”