The Effects of ECT upon simple visual reaction time and serial anticipation learning

Abstract

A 2 x 3 analysis of variance design with repeated measures on the second factor (n = 10 in each group) was employed to assess the effects of ECT upon psychomotor speed and serial learning ability. The results revealed that ECT did not increase either simple reaction time or serial learning scores. These findings are interpreted to indicate: (a) that ECT does not reduce the psychomotor retardation found in psychiatric patients, and (b) that ECT alone does not facilitate learning