Spatially constrained locomotion under informational conflict

Behav Brain Res. 2001 Aug 27;123(1):11-5. doi: 10.1016/s0166-4328(01)00185-1.

Abstract

This study investigates the informational based that supports intentional adaptation of locomotion to spatial environmental constraints. A virtual reality setup was used to present subjects with targets providing normal as well as abnormal optical expansion during locomotor pointing (i.e. positioning of a foot on a visible target on the floor during walking). The manipulation dissociated two variables providing temporal information about time-to-passage (TTP): TTP(beta alpha) which encompasses target expansion, and TTP(alpha) which is independent of target expansion. While a previous study showed TTP(alpha) to be sufficient, the present results reveal that TTP(beta alpha) may be used when it is available. This finding indicates that both variables play a role that varies according to the circumstances. Furthermore, the present results provide evidence of the operation of a security principle for action in conflicting situations.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological / physiology*
  • Conflict, Psychological*
  • Environment*
  • Foot / physiology
  • Humans
  • Motor Activity / physiology*
  • Space Perception / physiology
  • Walking / physiology