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- All Subjects: Cognition
- Creators: Atkinson, Robert
- Resource Type: Text
Each problem may include a different number of constraints placed upon the problem
solver. One type of problem commonly used in research are multiply-constrained
problems, such as the compound remote associates. Since their development they have
been related to creativity and insight. Moreover, research has been conducted to
determine the cognitive abilities underlying problem solving abilities. We sought to fully
evaluate the range of cognitive abilities (i.e., working memory, episodic and semantic
memory, and fluid and crystallized intelligence) linked to multiply-constrained problem
solving. Additionally, we sought to determine whether problem solving ability and
strategies (analytical or insightful) were task specific or domain general through the use
of novel problem solving tasks (TriBond and Location Bond). Results indicated that
multiply-constrained problem solving abilities were domain general, solutions derived
through insightful strategies were more often correct than analytical, and crystallized
intelligence was the only cognitive ability that provided unique predictive value.
ear, and 29.3% for related
ear. Unfortunately, there were no statistically significance for any of the response time effects, which McGregor and Howe found for the interaction between skill and proximity. Despite eye-tracking and EEG data not either support nor confirm McGregor and Howe's theory on how chess players memorize chessboard configurations, these metrics did help build a secondary theory on how novices typically rely on proximity to approach chess and new visual problems in general. This was exemplified by the statistically significant results for short-term excitement for the two-way interaction of skill and proximity, where the largest short-term excitement score was between novices on near proximity slides. This may indicate that novices, because they may lean toward using proximity to try to recall these pieces, experience a short burst of excitement when the pieces are close to each other because they are more likely to recall these configurations.
The relevance of depression in the clinical realm is well known, as it is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. Clinical depression is the leading cause of disease for women worldwide. The sex difference in depression and anxiety has guided the research of not just recent studies but older studies as well, supporting the theory that gonadal hormones are associated with the mechanisms of emotional cognition. The scientific literature points towards a clear correlative relationship between gonadal hormones, especially estrogens, and emotion regulation. This thesis investigates the neural pathways that have been indicated to regulate mood and anxiety. Currently, the research points to the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which regulates the stress response through its ultimate secretion of cortisol through the adrenal cortex, and its modulated response when exposed to higher levels of estrogen. Another mechanism that has been investigated is the interaction of estrogen and the serotonergic system, which is noteworthy because the serotonergic system is known for its importance in mood regulation. However, it is important to note that the research seeking to determine the neurobiological underpinnings of estrogen and the serotonergic system is not expansive. Future research should focus on determining the direct relationship between cortisol hypersecretion and estrogens, the specific neurobiological effects of serotonergic receptor subtypes on the antidepressant actions of estrogens, and the simultaneous effects of the stress and serotonergic systems on depressive symptoms.