Numerosity discrimination of tactile stimuli.
The ability of 40 college students to discriminate the number of tactile stimuli presented simultaneously was measured in two experiments. Simulation was provided by 12 solenoids fixed to points on the arms and legs. Exp. I showed a mean correct discrimination level of between 1.55 and 2.10 solenoids. Exp II compared discrimination of numerosity by a group who received immediate feedback with a no-feedback control group. Feedback produced a small increase in this ability. However, the most stimulation points correctly discriminated did not exceed three. The data are discussed in terms of the possible role of cutaneous masking.
D001076:Aptitude; D001132:Arm / Q000502:physiology; D004056:Differential Threshold; D004192:Discrimination, Psychological; D005246:Feedback; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D014110:Touch