An examination of Nc, N200, and P300 in children

The electrical activity of the brain can be recorded by placing electrodes on the scalp. Researchers have demonstrated that some of this activity is a manifestation of psychological processes (for reviews see: Coles & Rugg, 1995; Donchin, 1978; Fabiani, Gratton, Karis, & Donchin, 1987). This electrical activity can be divided into a series of components, called event-related potential (ERP) responses. Each of these ERP components (such as Nc, N2b, MMN, and P3b) reflect the activity of the brain as it responds to an event. Because these components represent the activity within the brain as information processing occurs, ERPs can be used to study cognitive development. By studying the responses made by different age groups, information about the changes in the processes thought to underlie ERP components can be studied. Previous research has conclusively shown the value of utilizing ERP responses as a measure of cognitive activity.;For the current study, children's cognitive development was examined using ERPs. Children between the ages of 5 and 11 years old were divided into two age groups. Twelve children were in a 9 to 11 year-old group. Nine children were in a 5 to 8 year-old group. The children's ERP responses to three tones were recorded. These three tones were presented in a modified oddball format. All children participated in two tasks, an active and a passive task. During the passive task, children sat quietly and listened to the tones. In the active task, children were instructed to raise one finger immediately after the presentation of a target tone.;Based on the analyses conducted in the current study, MMN, N2b, and P3b were present in both groups of children. Differences were found in how each age group responded to the active versus passive task. These differences are discussed in relation to cognitive development and the processing of auditory information.