A Psychophysiological Investigation of the Continuous flow model of human information processing

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1985

Keywords

Cognitive Processes, Evoked Potentials, Physiological Correlates, Reaction Time

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

https://doi.org/10.1037/0096-1523.11.5.529

Abstract

12 male college students responded to target letters H or S by squeezing dynamometers with the left and right hand. Targets could be surrounded by compatible (e.g., HHHHH) or incompatible noise (SSHSS) letters. Measures of the P300 component of the event-related brain potential and of correct and incorrect electromyographic (EMG) and squeeze activity were used to study stimulus evaluation and response-related processes. When incorrect squeeze activity was present, execution of the correct response was prolonged, indicating a process of response competition. This process occurred more often under incompatible noise conditions, which were also associated with a delayed P300. Thus, the noise/compatability manipulation influenced both stimulus evaluation and response competition processes. In contrast, a warning tone that preceded array presentation on half the trials increased response speed without influencing evaluation time. Data suggest that the latency and accuracy of overt behavioral responses are a function of (a) a response activation process controlled by an evaluation process that accumulates evidence gradually, (b) a response priming process that is independent of stimulus evaluation, and (c) a response competition process.

Was this content written or created while at USF?

No

Citation / Publisher Attribution

Journal of Experimental Psychology: Human Perception and Performance, v. 11, issue 5, p. 529-553.

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS