Signal detection comparisons of phonemic and phonetic priming: The flexible-bias problem

Journal/Book: Percept Psychophys. 1998; 60: 1710 Fortview Rd, Austin, TX 78704. Psychonomic Soc Inc. 952-965.

Abstract: The phonemic priming effect may reflect the hidden dynamics of spoken word perception and has thus been a key topic of recent research. This investigation compared phonemic and phonetic priming (cf. Goldinger, Luce, Pisoni, & Marcario, 1992), using signal detection methods. Although these methods were intended to provide separate indices of sensitivity and bias changes, the results were more complex. Instead, phonemic priming engendered a flexible, trial-specific strategy that affected hits and false alarms land thereby altered sensitivity) but also created behavioral changes indicative of a bias. Together with previous research, the results suggest that phonemic priming data must be interpreted with caution, and they underscore the limitations of signal detection analyses in priming research (Norris, 1995). However, if a researcher can anticipate the Likely form a bias will assume, signal detection methods can reveal priming effects.

Note: Article Goldinger SD, Arizona State Univ, Dept Psychol, Box 871104, Tempe,AZ 85287 USA

Keyword(s): LEXICAL-DECISION TASK; AUDITORY WORD RECOGNITION; NONPARAMETRIC INDEXES; SPREADING ACTIVATION; SEMANTIC ACTIVATION; VISUAL MASKING; SPOKEN WORDS; FACILITATION; MEMORY; COMPETITION

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