Unraveling early error processing

Error monitoring allows humans to detect errors in their performance and adapt behavior accordingly. A key neural marker of this process is the error negativity (Ne/ERN), a negative deflection at frontocentral electrodes shortly after an error, which reflects fast and automatic error processing. Theoretical accounts attributed the Ne/ERN to conflict monitoring and prediction error, but the exact mechanism remains unclear. In three studies, I investigated the Ne/ERN’s role in error monitoring and its relationship with other error-related phenomena. Study 1 found that the Ne/ERN varies with the level of post-response conflict. Study 2 showed that conscious error detection can occur without the Ne/ERN, suggesting separate neural bases for early error processing and error awareness. Study 3 explored links between the Ne/ERN and autonomic signals, showing that error-related pupil dilation is associated with the Ne/ERN while heart rate deceleration is not. These findings clarify the functional role of early error processes as reflected by the Ne/ERN and their relationship with other aspects of error processing.