Introducing CogQuest: A Fun Way to Understand How We Learn Habits

Have you ever wondered why some behaviours feel automatic, like brushing your teeth, while others require more thought and effort? That’s where CogQuest, one of the gamified tasks in neureka, comes in! CogQuest is designed to help researchers understand how habits are formed and the different systems in our brain that guide our actions.

According to the dual-process theory, our behaviour is influenced by two systems: one is fast and automatic (the "habit" system), and the other is slower and more deliberate (the "goal-directed" system). When we act out of habit, we often do things without thinking—like reaching for a snack without being hungry. On the other hand, goal-directed behaviour involves making decisions based on what we want or need in the moment.

But how can we tell whether a habit is driven by an overactive habit system or a weaker goal-directed system? That’s where CogQuest shines! In the game, players learn new habits by matching certain cues with specific actions. Then, during a testing phase, the game mixes things up, giving players different amounts of time to respond. When there’s little time to think, habits take over. But when there’s more time, goal-directed behaviour kicks in.

What makes CogQuest exciting is that it helps us understand not only how habits form, but also how different mental health conditions, like OCD or hair-pulling disorders, may involve either a loss of control over habits or an overactive habit system. This knowledge could eventually lead to better ways to treat or manage these conditions.

With CogQuest, you’re not just playing a fun game—you’re helping scientists explore the science of habits in new and exciting ways!