Rapid Visual Information Processing (RVP)

The Rapid Visual Information Processing (RVP) task is a CANTAB test of sustained visual attention — a continuous performance test.

Task

Single digits appear in the centre of the screen at a rate of 100 per minute. Target sequences are displayed on a panel to the right. When the participant detects a target sequence, they press a blue button. There are 9 target sequences per minute, requiring continuous vigilance.

Depression Relevance

Sustained attention is impaired in depression (Rock et al., 2013). RVP provides a sensitive measure of attentional deficits that may persist even after mood improvement.

Unlike delayed-match-to-sample (memory) or cambridge-gambling-task (decision-making), RVP isolates the attentional vigilance component specifically.

Related Pages

cantab | nonverbal-cognitive-tasks | preclinical-drug-screening