Go/No-Go Testing

Definition

Go/no-go testing is often used as a component of a behavioral neurological examination to assess inhibitory control. A classic example is to hold out two fingers, the index and middle fingers (palm down), and say to the examinee: “When I do this (showing two fingers in the form of a “V”), you do this (showing only the index finger), and when I do this (showing the index finger only), you do this (showing two fingers in the form of a “V”).” The examinee first learns the pattern of alternating between sticking out one finger (index) or two fingers (“V”) against the responses of the examiner. This primes the examinee into a set. After the examinee demonstrates several consecutive correct responses, the rules are then changed: “Now, I am going to change the rules. When I do this (showing two fingers in the form of a “V”), you do this (showing one finger), and when I do this (showing one finger), you do nothing.” This second task is the actual go/no-go testing.

Current Knowledge

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