Event-related potential correlates of some human cognitive ability constructs

Abstract

Event-related brain potentials arguably provide evidence for a relationship between intelligence and low-level brain processes based, at least partially, on physiological speed. Hierarchical models of cognitive abilities (e.g., Gf-Gc theory) describe constructs at different levels of complexity of information processing. Such hierarchies place tests of speed of processing at a low level of the information processing hierarchy [although, in factor analytic terms, general processing speed (Gs) is located at the same level as other general abilities]. The question arises: can a differential pattern of relationships between ERP latencies and cognitive abilities be discerned? Tests from the Woodcock-Johnson Psycho-Educational Battery Revised (an operationalisation of Gf-Gc theory) were administered to 64 adults. ERPs were recorded to pattern reversal stimuli and during inspection time (IT) estimation. ERP deflections with latencies from about 70 ms up to about 240 ms were negatively correlated with tests of cognitive abilities. The highest correlations were with a measure of fluid ability, but no differential pattern of correlations was found. The results are consistent with previous research in this area. That is, ERP latencies and tests of cognitive abilities share 10-25% of variance. © 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.