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01-06-2008 | Review

Interaction between startle and voluntary reactions in humans

Authors: Josep Valls-Solé, Hatice Kumru, Markus Kofler

Published in: Experimental Brain Research | Issue 4/2008

Abstract

The startle reaction (SR) is usually understood as an involuntary reaction to an unexpected sensory input. However, there is evidence that the mechanisms involved in the SR contribute also to the execution of actions that we consider voluntary. We need to exert a fine control of the motor output, which usually involves inhibition of the reflex reaction but it may also imply letting the SR manifest, shaped in accordance with our willed actions. The latter occurs mainly with relatively simple ballistic movements but it has also been shown to occur in complex movements. In this review, we describe arguments published in the literature in favour of the contribution of subcortical motor tracts involved in the generation of the SR to the execution of voluntary movements. Some of these studies have brought insight on the mechanisms accounting for motor preparation and execution of voluntary movements.

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Title: Interaction between startle and voluntary reactions in humans
Authors: Josep Valls-Solé
Hatice Kumru
Markus Kofler
Publication date: 01-06-2008
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Experimental Brain Research / Issue 4/2008
Print ISSN: 0014-4819
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1106
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00221-008-1402-0

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Interaction between startle and voluntary reactions in humans

Abstract

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

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