Classification of response inhibition measures: a proposal for a two-dimensional taxonomy

Inhibition is a fundamental component of self-regulation which can be defined as the ability to suppress an automatic response to execute an appropriate one. Given its impact on adaptation, wellbeing, and life satisfaction, the construct of inhibition has been extensively investigated in literature from manifold perspectives. Theoretical models of inhibition have highlighted its multi-componential nature, giving reason of why a multitude of experimental and clinical tasks are commonly used in inhibition research and assessment. Considering the diverse definitions of this function, we call for an enhanced comprehension of the mechanisms underlying response inhibition, which are inherent in each measure employed to assess it. The present contribution aims to propose a two-dimensional taxonomy of inhibition measures, suggesting that the most used tasks assessing inhibition can be mapped considering two continuous dimensions largely involved in inhibition, namely, cognitive complexity (low-high) and emotional processing (hot-cold). The proposed taxonomy was conceptualized to guide researchers and clinicians in selecting the relevant measure among the available tasks when they assess inhibitory functions. Our taxonomy could contribute to establishing consistent criteria and thus further the constitution of a common ground for inhibition tasks’ classification.