Distinguish between focus and newness: An ERP study

• Published in: Journal of neurolinguistics Vol. 31; pp. 28 - 41
• Main Authors: Chen, Lijing, Wang, Lin, Yang, Yufang
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.09.2014
• Subjects: Discourse processing; ERPs; Focus; Information structure; Newness; Shi; ERPs; Newness; Information structure; Shi; Focus; Discourse processing
• ISSN: 0911-6044; 1873-8052
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jneuroling.2014.06.002

The relationship between focus and newness was explored by recording brain responses to information structure in discourse reading. Focus was manipulated by whether or not placing a Chinese focus-particle “shi” in front of the critical words, while newness was manipulated by whether or not introducing the critical words in the preceding context. The focused words elicited a larger P2 as well as a larger positivity than the non-focused words, possibly reflecting attention allocation and immediate integration of focused information respectively. In contrast, the new words elicited a larger N400 and a smaller LPC than the given words, which may reflect difficult integration or memory retrieval of new information. These results suggest that the processing of focus and newness may involve different cognitive processes. Therefore, focus should be distinguished from newness from the perspective of cognitive processing. •We distinguished two intertwined concepts of information structure: focus and newness.•Focused words elicited a larger P2, a smaller N400 and a larger LPC than non-focused words.•New words elicited a larger N400 and a smaller LPC than given words.•Focus modulates attention allocation and triggers immediate integration.•Newness associates with difficult integration and memory retrieval of information in context.