eStroop: Implementation, Standardization, and Systematic Comparison of a New Voice-Key Version of the Traditional Stroop Task.

The Stroop effect is a well-documented phenomenon, demonstrating both interference and facilitation effects. Many versions of the Stroop task were created, according to the purposes of its applications, varying in numerous aspects. While many versions are developed to investigate the mechanisms of the effect itself, the Stroop effect is also considered a general measure of attention, inhibitory control, and executive functions. In this paper, we implement "eStroop": a new digital version based on verbal responses, measuring the main processes involved in the traditional effect. eStroop features four categories of stimuli in four different colors: (1) geometrical shapes, (2) neutral words, (3) congruent words, and (4) incongruent words. The results of the administration to 307 University students confirm the Stroop effect and offer baseline data for future research and clinical testing. Direct comparisons with other recent versions of the task are discussed, offering insights into differences and similarities between different task variables.

Activating attachment memories affects default mode network in a non-clinical sample with perceived dysfunctional parenting: An EEG functional connectivity study.

Dysfunctional parenting constitutes a factor of psychopathological vulnerability affecting development both at neurobiological and psychological level. The default mode network (DMN), a large scale network for brain functional integration, is supposed to play a crucial role in those psychological functions altered by dysfunctional parenting. Here we investigate electroencephalography DMN functional connectivity in relation to perceived dysfunctional parenting (PDP) in a non-clinical sample. We hypothesized that participants with high PDP would exhibit decreased DMN connectivity after the activation of attachment memories. Our results support this hypothesis: participants with high PDP showed a decrease of theta connectivity between left temporoparietal junction and right anterior cingulate cortex after the activation of attachment memories, and, compared to participants with low PDP, showed a decrease of delta connectivity in the same brain areas. We interpret these decreased DMN connectivity in participants with high PDP as the "neurophysiological signature" of the impaired ability to mentalize their own relational experiences with significant others after the activation of early attachment memories. Thus, the activation of attachment memories in individuals exposed to dysfunctional parenting could lead to a transitory failure of functional brain connectivity and consequent disturbance of high integrative mental functions, such as emotional regulation and mentalization.