Abstract
Two experiments tested the predictions from Bjork and Murray’s (1977) extension of Estes’ (1972, 1974) interactive channels model that repetition of a target within a display should, under certain conditions, impair or slow processing. These predictions were contrasted with those of the continuous flow model (Eriksen & Schultz, 1979) that, under the same conditions, repetitions should not impair processing and might possibly facilitate it. Experiment 1 evaluated the relative effects of feature similarity, variable target-noise spacing, and perceptual segregation in a response competition paradigm. In general, results favored the continuous flow conception and competition among internal recognition responses, and no evidence was found for impaired performance due to target repetitions. However, questions concerning possible facilitation arising from redundancy led to Experiment 2. In that experiment, trials were blocked by spacing or noise type. Again, target redundancy did not impair performance relative to the single target control. However, no facilitation effects were found.
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This research was supported by Public Health Service Research Career Program Award K6-MH-22014 to the first author and by U.S. Public Health Service Research Grant MH-01206.
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Eriksen, C.W., Eriksen, B.A. Target redundancy in visual search: Do repetitions of the target within thedisplay impair processing?. Perception & Psychophysics 26, 195–205 (1979). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03199869
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03199869