Spatial updating is a key cognitive function in the navigation process, which directly affects an individual’s path integration ability and navigation efficiency. Although existing studies have shown that field cognitive style and perspective orientation may influence spatial updating performance, the underlying cognitive and neural mechanisms have not yet been systematically investigated.

To explore this issue in depth, this study adopted a 2 (field-dependent/field-independent) * 2 (memory-consistent/sensorimotor-consistent) mixed experimental design, combining the relative direction judgment paradigm with functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) brain imaging technology. Through a virtual navigation task and the judgment of relative direction (JRD) paradigm, the study simultaneously recorded participants’ behavioral performance and brain activation patterns.

Results demonstrated that field-independent individuals exhibited superior behavioral performance and stronger activation in brain regions such as the precentral gyrus. Memory-aligned perspectives yielded better performance than sensorimotor-aligned perspectives. A significant interaction was observed between field-cognitive style and perspective orientation: under sensorimotor-aligned conditions, field-independent individuals demonstrated enhanced cognitive flexibility. This research reveals the synergistic influence of field-cognitive style and perspective orientation on spatial updating from a cognitive neuroscience perspective. These findings deepen the understanding of individual differences in spatial cognition and provide a key theoretical basis for optimizing spatial navigation-related cognitive training to enhance individual navigational abilities.