What is the primary focus of event-related potentials (ERPs) in brain research?

The primary focus of event-related potentials (ERPs) in brain research is assessing cognitive processes. ERPs are measured using electroencephalography (EEG) and allow researchers to identify the timing and nature of brain responses to specific sensory, cognitive, or motor events. By using ERPs, scientists can investigate how the brain processes information, including attention, perception, and memory tasks.

This technique is particularly valuable because it provides insights into the temporal dynamics of cognitive functioning, capturing rapid changes in brain activity associated with specific stimuli or tasks. Unlike methods that monitor structural changes or blood flow, ERPs focus on the electrical activity related to cognitive functions, making them a powerful tool for understanding how different cognitive processes unfold over time.