Deliberation and implementation activity in forced-choice decision making environments: variations in information processing within a neurocognitive framework



Humann, Michael ORCID: 0000-0003-3788-6653
Deliberation and implementation activity in forced-choice decision making environments: variations in information processing within a neurocognitive framework. Doctor of Philosophy thesis, University of Liverpool.

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Abstract

This thesis examined decision making in the context of forced-choice situations, as characterised by high-risk consequences and time-limited conditions, within an experimental decision paradigm. By mapping onto basic decision-making stages relating to evaluation, deliberation and implementation of a choice, this research looks at how environmental conditions (emotion) and information (advice) affect cognitive processing in forced-choice or “do or don’t” scenarios. In order to identify these variations on a more fundamental level, a methodological framework was developed, which incorporates neurocognitive, behavioural and qualitative measures. Results identified the distinct sequence of cognitive processes as predicted from basic decision-making models. When individuals lacked any meaningful information to assist in solving the tasks, their responses varied based on the consequential conditions they faced, leading to an accelerated engagement with the decision and faster response, the riskier the outcome. On the other hand, when information was available during the task, differences in responses followed predictions about information processing and cognitive effort required for the different levels of clarity. Here, the consequential conditions did not affect performance, as individuals prioritised the information available. Further, when solving a task lacking any meaningful information on which to base their choice, individuals still engaged in redundant deliberation. Taken together, the research suggests that outcome uncertainty and task ambiguity have a demonstrable effect on the decision-making process. This research, incorporating neurocognitive measures, showed a robust framework to advance current understanding about the interplay of affecting factors and basic decision-making processes. Providing an additional reference, this approach contributes to a more in-depth picture of underlying processes.

Item Type: Thesis (Doctor of Philosophy)
Additional Information: Date: 2011-09 (completed)
Divisions: Faculty of Health and Life Sciences > Institute of Population Health
Depositing User: Symplectic Admin
Date Deposited: 09 Aug 2012 11:12
Last Modified: 16 Dec 2022 04:36
DOI: 10.17638/00005653
Supervisors:
URI: https://livrepository.liverpool.ac.uk/id/eprint/5653