The role of outcome representations in behaviour
Human behaviour originates in the brain. But how are behaviours represented there, and what are the effects of this? In this research line we study the fundamental question of how behaviour is instigated and interpreted by the brain, and which role outcomes play in this process.
Although anticipated outcomes are indispensable for human behaviour, habits are traditionally defined by the absence of them. However, recent research suggests that outcome representations may play an important role in habitual behaviour. While outcomes may not always be consciously anticipated, they may be indispensable for selecting behaviours and rendering them flexible. By investigating the role of outcome representations we work on a better understanding of habits and open the door to better interventions to break them.
Outcome representations play a similar role in perception of behaviour. When we interpret another person鈥檚 behaviour, we do not only see behaviour but also infer intentions. Research has demonstrated that behaviours that are seen as producing outcomes are seen as more intentional, and that the same goes for the agents executing them.
Understanding the role of outcomes in representations of behaviours therefore helps us to understand instigation, as well interpretation of behaviour.
Involved researchers
- I am an associate professor, working on goal-directed behaviour, habits, and the role of consciousness. I am involved in various projects exploring these issues in relation to AI and fear-learning. I am co-directing the GoalLab with Baptist Liefooghe
- I am an assistant professor interested in human habits and (behavioural) addictions. I am involved in several projects studying basic and applied questions, such as smartphone use
- I am a PhD Candidate, interested studying the psychological aspects of human-AI interactions. I am currently researching intentionality perceptions in AI agents
- I am an associate professor with a special interest in social and cognitive aspects of Human-AI interactions. I am co-directing the GoalLab with Ruud Custers
- I am a professor in Psychology, interested in human habits, goals, and autonomy. I am involved in several projects studying basic and applied questions, such as intentionality, Human-AI interactions and health
- I am an assistant professor in psychology, focusing on social cognition and human-AI interaction. In the Goallab, I work on projects about literacy, autonomy, and inclusive AI in healthcare
Funding
- Incentive grant