A psychosocial manipulation of the error-related negativity does not transfer to the balance N1: A randomized controlled trial in anxious children.

In 30 seconds

This randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of a psychosocial intervention on the error-related negativity (ERN) and balance N1 in 54 anxious children aged 9-12 years. The intervention successfully reduced the ERN, but did not affect the balance N1, indicating that the two brain responses may not share the same underlying mechanisms.

Key findings

• The psychosocial intervention reduced the ERN in anxious children.
• The balance N1 remained unchanged after the intervention.
• The study involved 54 children aged 9-12 years with anxiety disorders.
• The intervention was a brief 45-minute computerized session.

Why it matters

Understanding the distinct mechanisms underlying different brain responses to anxiety can inform targeted interventions. This study highlights the potential for psychosocial strategies to modify specific cognitive-emotional biases in anxious children.