Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
6035711 | NeuroImage | 2011 | 11 Pages |
Taking the perspective of somebody else (Theory of Mind; ToM) is an essential human ability depending on a large cerebral network comprising prefrontal and temporo-parietal regions. Recently, ToM was suggested to consist of two processes: (1) self-perspective inhibition and (2) belief reasoning. Moreover, it has been hypothesized that self-perspective inhibition may build upon basic motor response inhibition. This study tested both hypotheses for the first time using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), through administering both a ToM and a stop-signal paradigm in the same subjects. Both self-perspective and motor response inhibition yielded bilateral inferior frontal gyrus (IFG) activation, suggesting a common inhibitory mechanism, while belief reasoning was mediated by the superior temporal gyrus (STG) and temporo-parietal junction (TPJ). Thus, we provide neurobiological evidence for a subdivision of ToM into self-perspective inhibition and belief reasoning. Furthermore, evidence for partially shared neural mechanisms for inhibition in complex social situations and basic motor response inhibition was found.
Research highlights⺠ToM can be subdivided into self-perspective inhibition and belief reasoning. ⺠Self-perspective inhibition is mediated by the bilateral IFG. ⺠Belief reasoning is mediated by the left STG, TPJ and MTG. ⺠Self-inhibition and response inhibition build upon similar neural mechanisms.