Does the number of languages you speak determine your ability to regulate your thoughts and behavior (effect of bilingual experience on cognitive control). If so, does speaking more languages imply better cognitive control (bilingual advantage?). Does this cognitive control depend on where you apply it, language, motor processes, etc.? (domain-dependent or domain-independent cognitive control). All these and related questions have been widely studied but the scientific evidence is not conclusive. In fact, in our research we have found data for and against the possible influence of bilingual experience on cognitive control (conflict resolution). In this line of research, we continue seeking answers to these questions by systematically evaluating elements within the equation such as the tasks (linguistic, non-linguistic), the paradigms (response conflict, conflict between representations and/or stimulus dimensions), and the people ultimately involved (experts in different areas of knowledge).

Some Readings

• Bellegarda, M. A. P., & Macizo, P. (2021). Cognitive control and bilingualism: The bilingual advantage through the lens of dimensional overlap. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 614849. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.614849  

• Andras, F., M. Ángeles Ramos, & Macizo, P. (2023). The impact of bilingualism in within-language conflict resolution: An ERP study. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1173486. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1173486