Integrating fMRI with psychophysiological measurements in the study of decision-making

Neuroimaging techniques have recently been used to examine the neural mechanism of decision-making. Nevertheless, most of the neuroimaging studies overlook the importance of emotion and autonomic response in modulating the process of decision-making. In this paper, we discussed how to integrating fMRI with psychophysiological measurements in studying decision-making. We suggested that psychophysiological data would complement with fMRI findings in providing a more comprehensive understanding about the physiological and neural mechanisms of decision-making. Also, this technique would yield valuable information in examining the interplay among emotions, autonomic response and decision-making. The discussion is presented in a tutorial format with concrete technical recommendations for researchers who may consider to adopt the technique in their study of decision-making. Copyright © 2011 American Psychological Association.