BACKGROUND
Considered a facet of behavioural impulsivity, response inhibition facilitates adaptive and goal-directed behaviour. It is often assessed using the Stop-Signal Task (SST), which is presented on stand-alone computers under controlled laboratory conditions. Sample size may consequently be a function of cost/time and sample diversity constrained to those willing/able to attend the lab. Statistical power and generalisability of results might, in turn, be impacted. Such limitations may potentially be overcome via the implementation of online testing.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to investigate if there were differences between variables derived from an online SST when it was undertaken independently – that is, outside the laboratory, on any computer, and in the absence of researchers – versus when it was performed under laboratory conditions.
METHODS
We programmed a web-based SST in HTML and JavaScript and employed a counter-balanced design. A total of 166 individuals (Mage = 19.72, SD = 1.85, range: 18-36, 88% female) were recruited. Of these, n = 79 undertook the independent task prior to visiting the laboratory and n = 78 completed the independent task following their laboratory visit. Average time between SST testing was 3.72 days (SD = 2.86). Dependent samples and Bayesian paired samples t-tests were utilised to examine differences between lab-based and independent SST variables. Correlational analyses were conducted on stop-signal reaction times (SSRT).
RESULTS
After exclusions, 123 participants (Mage = 19.73, SD = 1.97) completed the SST both in the laboratory and independently. While participants were less accurate on go trials and exhibited reduced inhibitory control when undertaking the independent – as compared to the lab-based – SST, there was a positive association between the SSRT of each condition (r = .48, P < .001, 95% CI [0.33, 0.61]).
CONCLUSIONS
Findings suggest an online SST, which participants undertake on any computer, in any location, and in the absence of the researcher, is a suitable measure of response inhibition.