On the generality of optimal versus objective classifier feedback effects on decision criterion learning in perceptual categorization

Biased category payoff matrices engender separate reward- and accuracy-maximizing decision criteria Although instructed to maximize reward, observers use suboptimal decision criteria that place greater emphasis on accuracy than is optimal. In this study, objective classifier feedback (the objectively correct response) was compared with optimal classifier feedback (the optimal classifier's response) at two levels of category discriminability when zero or negative costs accompanied incorrect responses for two payoff matrix multiplication factors. Performance was superior for optimal classifier feedback relative to objective classifier feedback for both zero- and negative-cost conditions, especially when category discriminability was low, but the magnitude of the optimal classifier advantage was approximately equal for zero- and negative-cost conditions. The optimal classifier feedback performance advantage did not interact with the payoff matrix multiplication factor. Model-based analyses suggested that the weight placed on accuracy was reduced for optimal classifier feedback relative to objective classifier feedback and for high category discriminability relative to low category discriminability. In addition, the weight placed on accuracy declined with training when feedback was based on the optimal classifier and remained relatively stable when feedback was based on the objective classifier. These results suggest that feedback based on the optimal classifier leads to superior decision criterion learning across a wide range of experimental conditions.