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Surface-based constraints on target selection and distractor rejection: evidence from preview search
Kevin Dent1, Glyn W Humphreys2, Xun He3
1Department of Psychology, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, United Kingdom.
Vision Research
|March 6, 2014
Summary
In visual search, ignoring preview distractors can hinder target detection, a negative carry-over effect. This study shows this effect extends to 3D surfaces, not just simple features.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Visual Perception
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Negative carry-over effects in visual search are typically linked to inhibition of previously seen features.
- These effects impede the detection of new targets sharing features with ignored preview distractors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if negative carry-over effects extend to stereoscopically defined surfaces.
- To determine if inhibition targets well-formed surfaces beyond simple visual features.
Main Methods:
- Experiments involved previewing distractor surfaces before target presentation.
- Stimuli varied in depth cues (binocular disparity) and surface configuration.
- Participant reaction times and accuracy were measured for target detection.
Main Results:
- Slower and less efficient target detection occurred in the 'old' surface compared to a new surface.
- This effect persisted even when surface proportions were balanced and no new planes appeared.
- The negative carry-over effect was dependent on the presence of binocular depth cues.
Conclusions:
- Well-formed surfaces, not just basic features, can be targets of inhibition during visual search.
- Depth perception plays a crucial role in the negative carry-over effect for surface-based inhibition.
