ERP stands for event-related potential and refers to the measurement of the brain’s electrical activity in response to a picture, sound, touch, or movement. This technique is a valuable tool because a person needs only to quietly attend to the information we present to him or her and we are able to get a direct measure of the brain’s response to that information. First, we cleanse the face and scalp and then we place an appropriately fitting cap with small metal disks (electrodes) sewn into it onto the subject’s head.

A small amount of electrode gel is then applied at the location of each small metal disk. This procedure takes between 15 and 45 minutes, depending upon the number of electrodes used in the study and the subject’s age. During this time the subject can watch a video or play with toys in the laboratory. Brainwaves from these electrodes are recorded by our computer while the subject pays attention to the information we present. The procedure is safe for all ages and the system is capable only of recording information from the electrodes; it cannot send electrical current back through the electrodes.