Home
At the University of Montreal, the Electrophysiology Laboratory in Social Neuroscience (ELSN), studies the implicit cognitive processes that are responsible for our emotional and behavioural reactions in social situations.
In order to study these unconscious cognitive processes, the ELSN uses electrophysiological methods, which include electroencephalography (EEG) measurements with event-related potentials and electrodermal activity.
Within a timeframe that consists of milliseconds, ERPs allow for the continuous measurement of cognitive processes in real-time, as they occur in the brain during data processing of a given social situation.
Event-related potentials (ERPs) are electrical potential variations that are produced by the nervous system. They occur in response to either external sensory stimulations, or internal cognitive events.
This technology makes it possible to study a person’s cognitions, even when they are unaware them, and without the need for a verbal or motor response on their part.
Electrodermal activity refers to the biological electrical activity that is recorded on the surface of the skin and indicates activity produced by the sweat glands and the autonomic nervous system.
Electrodermal activity can serve as an index of a person’s perceptual and involuntary behavioural reaction to a social situation, regardless of their intended self-report or explicit response.
The ELSN also studies the implicit cognitive processes which regulate our emotions and behaviours during social situations. These processes are assessed during behavioural tasks, which activate attentional, emotional, and motor control mechanisms.
Our research activities are financed by the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), the John R. Evans Leaders Fund, the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), the International Psychoanalytical Association (IPA), and the “Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation du Montréal métropolitain” (CRIR).
News
Jean Gagnon receives an Honourable mention at the Prix de la ministre de l’Enseignement supérieur, Mrs. Danielle McCann, for the Psychologie de la personnalité course, distance education section, 2021-2022 edition, Government of Quebec.
