The Neural Network Underlying Incentive-Based Learning: Implications for Interpreting Circuit Disruptions in Psychiatric Disorders

• Published in: Neuron (Cambridge, Mass.) Vol. 83; no. 5; pp. 1019 - 1039
• Main Authors: Haber, Suzanne N., Behrens, Timothy E.J.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 03-09-2014; Elsevier Limited
• Subjects: Animal cognition; Behavior; Brain; Brain - pathology; Brain Mapping; Decision making; Dopamine; Experiments; Humans; Learning Disabilities - pathology; Motivation; Motivation - physiology; Nerve Net - pathology; Neural Pathways - pathology; Neuroses; Physiology; Rodents
• ISSN: 0896-6273; 1097-4199
• DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2014.08.031

Coupling stimuli and actions with positive or negative outcomes facilitates the selection of appropriate actions. Several brain regions are involved in the development of goal-directed behaviors and habit formation during incentive-based learning. This Review focuses on higher cognitive control of decision making and the cortical and subcortical structures and connections that attribute value to stimuli, associate that value with choices, and select an action plan. Delineating the connectivity between these areas is fundamental for understanding how brain regions work together to evaluate stimuli, develop actions plans, and modify behavior, as well as for elucidating the pathophysiology of psychiatric diseases.
Coupling stimuli and actions with positive or negative outcomes facilitates action selection. Haber and Behrens review cognitive control of decision making and the cortical and subcortical structures and connections that attribute value to stimuli, associate that value with choices, and select an action plan.