Definition
The mismatch negativity (MMN) is an event-related potential (ERP) evoked in response to a perceived change in sensory stimuli. It is commonly elicited in an oddball paradigm in which a standard stimulus is paired with a deviant stimulus, the standard being presented the majority of instances. It generally occurs 150–250 ms after the presentation of the deviant stimulus, though in children its latency is delayed to between 200 and 300 ms. The MMN is typically evaluated by calculating a difference wave, computed by subtracting the ERP in response to the standard stimulus from the ERP to the deviant stimulus.
Historical Background
Electrophysiology provides an avenue to examine mental functioning that may not be manifested behaviorally. It allows for the investigation of aspects of cognition, perception, and other biological bases for behavior. This is especially useful in assessing infant and clinical populations that may lack the requisite capacities for expression.
Electroenc...
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Aaronson, B., Bernier, R. (2013). Mismatch Negativity. In: Volkmar, F.R. (eds) Encyclopedia of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-1698-3_738
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4419-1698-3_738
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