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Comparing the Frequency Effect Between the Lexical Decision and Naming Tasks in Chinese
Published on: April 1, 2016
Sequential effects in lexical decision: tests of compound-cue retrieval theory
1Psychology Department, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA.
Journal of Experimental Psychology. Learning, Memory, and Cognition
|September 1, 1995
Summary
Compound-cue retrieval theories explain lexical decision tasks by matching short-term memory items to long-term memory. Experiments confirm that sequential effects align with these theories, impacting word recognition.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Psychology
- Psycholinguistics
- Memory Research
Background:
- Lexical decision tasks involve determining if a presented string is a word or nonword.
- Compound-cue retrieval theories propose that memory retrieval involves a passive matching process.
- These theories predict sequential and priming effects in cognitive tasks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate sequential effects in lexical decision tasks.
- To determine if experimental results support compound-cue retrieval theories.
- To examine how preceding items influence target word recognition.
Main Methods:
- Four experiments were conducted using lexical decision tasks.
- The study manipulated the presentation order of items (words and nonwords).
- Response times to target items were measured and analyzed for sequential effects.
Main Results:
- Sequential effects were observed in the lexical decision tasks.
- Results demonstrated that preceding items influenced responses to target items.
- The observed sequential effects were consistent with predictions of compound-cue theory.
Conclusions:
- Compound-cue retrieval theories provide a valid framework for understanding lexical decision processes.
- Sequential effects play a significant role in word recognition and memory retrieval.
- The findings support the passive matching mechanism proposed by compound-cue theories.

