Modeling Context-Dependent Acquisition and Extinction Learning (A14)

• Subject Area: Human Cognitive and Systems Neuroscience ; Cognitive, Systems and Behavioural Neurobiology
• Term: since 2017
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 316803389

Extinction learning is strongly dependent on the contexts, in which acquisition and extinction take place, but we still do not fully understand how this context-dependence comes about and how to reduce this context-dependence in therapeutic interventions. In this project, we use computational modeling based on reinforcement learning. Extending a previously developed model, we study the neural representations of contextual information and the mechanism by which exposure to multiple contexts increase the efficacy of exposure-based therapy. We also develop a model that integrates aspects of classical and operant conditioning to study their interaction in generating and maintaining anxiety disorders.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1280: Extinction Learning
• Applicant Institution: Ruhr-Universität Bochum
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Sen Cheng