title: Toward a model framework of generalized parallel componential processing of multi-symbol numbers.
abstract: In this article, we propose and evaluate a new model framework of parallel componential multi-symbol number processing, generalizing the idea of parallel componential processing of multi-digit numbers to the case of negative numbers by considering the polarity signs similar to single digits. In a first step, we evaluated this account by defining and investigating a sign-decade compatibility effect for the comparison of positive and negative numbers, which extends the unit-decade compatibility effect in 2-digit number processing. Then, we evaluated whether the model is capable of accounting for previous findings in negative number processing. In a magnitude comparison task, in which participants had to single out the larger of 2 integers, we observed a reliable sign-decade compatibility effect with prolonged reaction times for incompatible (e.g., -97 vs. +53; in which the number with the larger decade digit has the smaller, i.e., negative polarity sign) as compared with sign-decade compatible number pairs (e.g., -53 vs. +97). Moreover, an analysis of participants' eye fixation behavior corroborated our model of parallel componential processing of multi-symbol numbers. These results are discussed in light of concurrent theoretical notions about negative number processing. On the basis of the present results, we propose a generalized integrated model framework of parallel componential multi-symbol processing.
authors: Knowledge Media Research Center, IWM-KMRC.
authors: Stefan
authors: S
authors: Huber
authors: Center for Neurology, Division of Neuropsychology, Hertie-Institue for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen.
authors: Sonja
authors: S
authors: Cornelsen
authors: Knowledge Media Research Center, IWM-KMRC.
authors: Korbinian
authors: K
authors: Moeller
authors: Department of Psychology, University of Tübingen.
authors: Hans-Christoph
authors: HC
authors: Nuerk
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D053483:Eye Movement Measurements; D005260:Female; D005403:Fixation, Ocular; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D055641:Mathematical Concepts; D008606:Mental Processes; D008960:Models, Psychological; D011581:Psychological Tests; D011930:Reaction Time; D055815:Young Adult