Testing quantitative models of backward masking.
We analyzed the relationship between U-shaped and monotonic-shaped masking functions, using both computer simulations of quantitative models and experimental data Our analysis revealed that quantitative models of backward masking predict that U-shaped masking functions should appear for weak masks and monotonic masking functions should appear for strong masks. The models predict, moreover, that for a fixed target and experimental task, as the mask changes it is possible to go from U-shaped to monotonic-shaped masking functions. Significantly, the models predict that at each stimulus onset asynchrony between the target and the mask, the U-shaped function must have weaker masking than the monotonic-shaped function. Contrary to the predictions of the models, we show an experimental situation that generates masking functions that violate this prediction.
Francis
Gregory
G
Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana 47907-2004, USA. gfrancis@psych.purdue.edu
Herzog
Michael H
MH
D005556:Form Perception; D006801:Humans; D010470:Perceptual Masking