Object-based representations facilitate memory for inhibitory processes.
Previous work has shown that in a sequential cueing task, inhibition of the return of attention (IOR) can be observed for up to four or five loci. We have argued that the inhibition processes mediating IOR are associated with object-based representations, and it is object-based representations that are maintained in memory. Experiments presented here show that, compared with standard conditions in which a number of identical grey squares are cued, cueing empty locations tends to reduce the memory for prior inhibitory processes; while cueing objects which are distinctive in colour and shape tends to increase memory for inhibition. Converging with other recent findings, we conclude that memory for the inhibitory processes of attention facilitates visual search and that this memory is dependent on object-based representations.
Paul
Matthew A
MA
School of Psychology, Centre for Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Wales, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 2AS, UK.
Tipper
Steven P
SP
D001288:Attention / Q000502:physiology*; D003118:Color Perception / Q000502:physiology; D003463:Cues; D004193:Discrimination Learning; D005556:Form Perception / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D007266:Inhibition, Psychological; D008570:Memory, Short-Term / Q000502:physiology*; D009949:Orientation; D010364:Pattern Recognition, Visual / Q000502:physiology; D010775:Photic Stimulation; D011597:Psychomotor Performance; D011930:Reaction Time