A Distributed Signal Detection Theory Model: Implications for the Design of Warnings

A distributed signal detection theory model is employed to analyze the effectiveness of warnings under different operating conditions. In particular, the following two cases are examined: (a) the warning on a product is always present and (b) the warning on a product is administered selectively. The comparative effects of warning versus no warning are described. It is established that selectivity always increases effectiveness. The implications to optimal warning design of intermittent hazard versus continuous hazard are discussed. Furthermore, a series of experiments is conducted to compare the behavior of human participants with the prescriptive behavior of the normative model. The changes in the behavior of the human participants response to changes in the warning levels are consistent with the predictions of the model. These changes should be taken into consideration in the design of warnings.