Task switching with probabilistic reward schemes

Previous research has shown that transitions in reward prospect influence (voluntary) task switching behavior. Specifically, an increase in reward prospect appears to enhance flexibility, as indicated by a higher voluntary switch rate (VSR), compared to situations where the reward prospect remains high. In contrast, when participants are randomly rewarded in the previous task, they tend to stick with this task, resulting in a lower VSR. The present study further explores the impact of probabilistic reward schemes on task switching. Two tasks were associated with distinct probabilities of receiving a reward for correct responses (high vs. low probability). This design allows for more refined predictions regarding VSR based on the results summarized above. In three experiments with voluntary and cued task switching, we observed that participants switched tasks less frequently when they were rewarded on the previous trial, regardless of whether the task had a high or low reward probability. This pattern suggests the use of a win-stay, lose-shift (WSLS) strategy, where participants are more likely to repeat their choice after receiving a reward. However, reward had no impact on switch costs. These results are discussed in the broader context of decision-making research, particularly in relation to strategies like WSLS and possibly different levels of cognitive processes affected by our manipulation and that of studies investigating transitions of reward prospect.