Adaptive Decision-Making Under Pressure: Effects of Control Mode–Cognitive Resource Alignment on Performance Within the Contextual Control Model
研究了任务需求和经验如何影响认知资源感知和控制模式，以及控制模式与认知资源不匹配对绩效的影响，为高压力环境下的适应性决策提供机制证据。
Objective This study investigates how task demand and experience influence perceived available cognitive resources and control mode, and how these factors affect performance under pressure. It also examines how control mode-cognitive resource mismatches impact performance within the contextual control model (COCOM) framework. Background Adaptive decision-making is essential in high-stakes domains. COCOM posits that individuals adopt control modes, which are patterns of decision-making strategies ranging from reactive to planful ( Scrambled, Opportunistic , Tactical , Strategic ), based on contextual factors like subjectively available time. However, empirical validation of COCOM mechanisms remains limited. Method Thirty-seven participants completed an air traffic control simulation game across three sessions (representing experience) and four task levels. Behavior-anchored questionnaires assessed perceived cognitive resources and control mode. Performance was obtained from simulation logs. Results Perceived available cognitive resources decreased with task demand but increased with experience. Participants employed more planful control modes as cognitive resources and experience increased. Cognitive resource appraisals mediated the effect of task demand on control mode. Planful control was associated with higher performance when paired with high cognitive resources and complex tasks. Performance declined when planful modes were chosen despite low perceived resources. Conclusion Findings provide within-person evidence for a mechanistic pathway of adaptive cognitive control, demonstrating that task demand and experience shape cognitive resource appraisals, which in turn influence control mode and performance. Mode-resource alignment is critical for effective decision-making, enhancing performance. Application Training and decision support can target control mode-cognitive resource alignment by building metacognitive skills for monitoring cognitive resources and selecting appropriate control modes.