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Subjective correlation and the regular-random numerosity illusion.

J B Cousins, N Ginsburg

    The Journal of General Psychology
    |January 1, 1983
    PubMed
    Summary

    Regular patterns of dots appear more numerous than random ones. This study tested a theory of contrast with expectancy but found no interaction between correlation and arrangement, though regularity

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    Area of Science:

    • Psychology
    • Visual Perception
    • Cognitive Science

    Background:

    • Previous research indicates that regular dot patterns are perceived as more numerous than random patterns with identical physical counts.
    • Birnbaum and Veit's theory of contrast with expectancy has been proposed as an explanation for this visual illusion.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To empirically test Birnbaum and Veit's theory of contrast with expectancy regarding the perception of dot pattern numerosity.
    • To investigate the interaction between stimulus regularity, perceived number, and prior expectancy.

    Main Methods:

    • Three experimental groups (N=102) were exposed to stimuli with varying correlations (positive, negative, zero) between dot pattern regularity and number.
    • Participants' perception of numerosity was assessed following controlled exposure.

    Main Results:

    • The study did not find the predicted interaction effect between the correlation of regularity and item arrangement.
    • The main effect of pattern regularity on perceived numerosity was consistent across all experimental groups, regardless of prior exposure.

    Conclusions:

    • The findings do not support Birnbaum and Veit's theory of contrast with expectancy as the sole explanation for the regularity-numerosity illusion.
    • Pattern regularity significantly influences perceived numerosity independently of expectancy manipulation.

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