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Updated: Aug 10, 2026
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Measuring Attention and Visual Processing Speed by Model-based Analysis of Temporal-order Judgments
Published on: January 23, 2017
Evidence against late selection: stimulus quality effects in previewed displays
Summary
Late-selection theories of visual attention suggest identity processing is automatic. However, experiments show stimulus factors still affect reaction times even after preview, challenging this visual attention model.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Neuroscience
- Visual Perception
Background:
- Late-selection theories propose automatic identity computation for familiar stimuli.
- These theories suggest location-based selection doesn't require re-processing identity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To empirically test the strong late-selection model of visual attention.
- To investigate whether stimulus factors influencing encoding affect performance when selection occurs after initial processing.
Main Methods:
- Five experiments used a preview display of eight characters followed by a location probe for speeded classification.
- Manipulated stimulus factors known to slow character encoding.
- Included catch trials with post-display masks to prevent encoding delays.
Main Results:
- Factors slowing character encoding significantly affected reaction times and errors, contrary to late-selection predictions.
- These effects persisted even when stimuli were previewed and masks were used.
Conclusions:
- The findings challenge the strong late-selection model by demonstrating ongoing encoding effects.
- Results suggest that identity processing may not be fully automatic and independent of selection timing in visual attention.
