The influence of embodiment on multisensory integration using the mirror box illusion

Conscious Cogn. 2015 Dec:37:71-82. doi: 10.1016/j.concog.2015.08.011. Epub 2015 Aug 28.

Abstract

We examined the relationship between subcomponents of embodiment and multisensory integration using a mirror box illusion. The participants' left hand was positioned against the mirror, while their right hidden hand was positioned 12″, 6″, or 0″ from the mirror - creating a conflict between visual and proprioceptive estimates of limb position in some conditions. After synchronous tapping, asynchronous tapping, or no movement of both hands, participants gave position estimates for the hidden limb and filled out a brief embodiment questionnaire. We found a relationship between different subcomponents of embodiment and illusory displacement towards the visual estimate. Illusory visual displacement was positively correlated with feelings of deafference in the asynchronous and no movement conditions, whereas it was positive correlated with ratings of visual capture and limb ownership in the synchronous and no movement conditions. These results provide evidence for dissociable contributions of different aspects of embodiment to multisensory integration.

Keywords: Body representation; Deafference; Embodiment; Mirror box; Multisensory integration; Ownership.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Body Image*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Illusions / physiology*
  • Male
  • Proprioception / physiology*
  • Psychomotor Performance / physiology*
  • Visual Perception / physiology*
  • Young Adult