Neuroscience of Decision Making by Mandel David R. Vartanian Oshin

Author:Mandel, David R.,Vartanian, Oshin
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Taylor & Francis (CAM)
Published: 2011-07-14T16:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER SEVEN

Neural mechanisms underlying reward and punishment learning in the human brain: Insights from fMRI

John P. O’Doherty

INTRODUCTION

The capacity to predict when and where affectively significant events will occur is central for the survival of most organisms, including humans. Such predictions are often learned through direct experience, and facilitate the optimization of behavioral responses in order to maximize the probability of obtaining rewards and avoiding punishments. In this chapter I will review the current state of knowledge about the neural mechanisms that underpin learning about rewards and punishments through experience. This will be done with particular emphasis on research into this question using functional neuroimaging (particularly fMRI) in humans, but where appropriate I will put this human research into context alongside relevant studies being performed on this issue using animal models.

I will begin this review by differentiating between a number of types of value signal that might conceivably be used by humans and other animals. Next we will describe the putative computational mechanisms by which predictive valuation signals might be learned through experience, and review evidence for the operation of such mechanisms in the brain. Finally, I will outline some of the main outstanding questions currently facing the field of learning and decision making.

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