Event-related potential indices of a two-factor model of cognitive control

In the current study, we provide direct psychophysiological evidence of individual differences in a two-factor model of cognitive control (i.e., the Dual-Mechanisms of Control). Participants differing in working memory capacity performed a high-congruency version of the Simon task that was hypothesized to place a high demand on the cognitive control network. As they performed the task, we recorded event-related potentials from the face and scalp. The data provided information on how working memory capacity is predictive of a person's ability to dynamically use elements of one or both forms of control, based on task goals and environmental demands. In particular, individuals with a high working memory span were better able to reinstate a task goal after conflict trials, indicating a more tightly tuned cognitive control network. We speculate on the neural bases of these heightened abilities, with a particular focus on the interplay between the dorsolateral region of the prefrontal cortex (dlPFC) and the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC).