Visual Foraging under Threat: Effects of Spatial Threat Distribution and Target Value

Humans constantly need to balance reward and risk in dynamic environments. The present study investigates how visual attention and foraging behavior are shaped when spatially distributed reward and threat cues vary simultaneously. Specifically, we aim to understand how observers allocate attention, make approach–avoidance decisions, and decide when to leave a foraging patch under varying levels of potential threat. During the experiment, participants will perform visual foraging task in which spatial gradients of reward (points) and threat (aversive electro-tactile stimulation) are orthogonally manipulated, requiring participants to balance gain and risk within a patch. Eye movements and clicking behavior will be recorded to assess attentional allocation and approach–avoidance tendencies.