A novel methodology for data-driven EEG-ERP analyses based on massive
univariate statistical methods and Bayesian inference
Abstract
We present a novel methodology for analyzing electroencephalographic
(EEG) event-related potentials (ERP) using massive univariate
statistical methods combined with Bayesian inference. This data-driven
approach automatically identifies clusters of electrodes and time
windows showing potential effects, improving traditional methods that
rely on a priori selection of regions of interest and null hypothesis
significance testing (NHST). Our methodology addresses key limitations
of NHST, including increased risk of type II errors and restrictive
experimental design requirements. Through Bayesian inference, we
evaluate and quantify the significance of the identified effects,
providing a more flexible and interpretable framework for hypothesis
testing. We applied this method to EEG data collected from
ex-combatants, victims, and civilians involved in the Colombian armed
conflict during a modified Implicit Association Test designed to measure
implicit bias. Our approach demonstrated increased sensitivity compared
to conventional NHST-based ERP analyses, with Bayesian inference
offering robust evidence for group differences. This methodology
enhances exploratory ERP research by mitigating issues related to
multiple comparisons and integrating prior knowledge. It could also be
applicable in experimental psychology and neuroscience studies where
pre-selecting regions of interest is still challenging.