The reversed Simon effect
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Published on: November 8, 2018
Elena Gherri1, Luisa Lugli1, Stefania D'Ascenzo1
1Department of Philosophy, University of Bologna.
Abstract:
This study investigated possible cognitive mechanisms responsible for the reversed Simon effect. Its goal was to document the presence of individuals with a reversed Simon effect and to investigate the cognitive mechanisms responsible for this reversal. It inquired whether variations in the size and sign of the Simon effect reflect simply random fluctuations in the effect measurement or systematic differences in the cognitive mechanisms engaged to complete the task. Three experiments were conducted in which a large group of participants (N = 256, N = 197, and N = 232 in Experiments 1-3, respectively) performed a standard Simon task. In each experiment, participants were sorted into two groups, based on the direction of the Simon effect (standard vs. reversed). Reaction times and errors were analyzed to investigate the sequential modulation and time course of the Simon effect in each group. Participants with a reversed Simon effect (approximately 10%-15%) displayed systematic inhibition of the spatially corresponding response, resulting in slower responses on corresponding trials. Findings suggested that the reversed Simon effect may reflect a distinct cognitive style or strategy, highlighting the importance of individual differences in cognitive processes and warranting further exploration to understand its permanence and underlying mechanisms. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2026 APA, all rights reserved).
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