Abstract

Priority Binding theory (MacKay et al., 2004) proposes that under temporal pressure arousing negative stimuli delay binding of neutral items presented in close temporal proximity (as in lists with mixed neutral and negative stimuli). With fast presentation rates, a subsequent negative item may interrupt the binding process for the preceding neutral stimulus. This results in more accurate memory for negative images presented in mixed lists. However, in slow presentation rates, binding occurs equally for all items. Therefor, no such advantage is predicted comparing images presented in lists of the same valence. This study examined the predictions of priority binding theory by manipulating temporal pressure across lists of emotional visual images. Results showed performance difference between rates, with better accuracy, sensitivity, a greater bias at the slow rate, and a trend for better accuracy for negative images than neutral images in mixed lists, which supports the predictions of binding theory. The results extend the predictions of priority binding theory to picture stimuli. However, more research need to be conducted to determine if image stimuli are differentially processed and remembered than word stimuli.

LLU Discipline

Clinical Psychology

Department

Psychology

School

School of Behavioral Health

First Advisor

Haerich, Paul E.

Second Advisor

Distelberg, Brian J.

Third Advisor

Hartman, Richard E.

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Degree Level

Ph.D.

Year Degree Awarded

2014

Date (Title Page)

3-2014

Language

English

Library of Congress/MESH Subject Headings

Memory - Physiological Aspects; Episodic Memory; Emotions; Context Effects (Psychology); Perception (Psychology; Prediction Theory; Analysis of Variance

Subject - Local

Priority Binding Theory; Negative Stimuli; Neutral Stimuli; Picture Stimuli

Type

Thesis

Page Count

58

Digital Format

PDF

Digital Publisher

Loma Linda University Libraries

Usage Rights

This title appears here courtesy of the author, who has granted Loma Linda University a limited, non-exclusive right to make this publication available to the public. The author retains all other copyrights.

Collection

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Collection Website

http://scholarsrepository.llu.edu/etd/

Repository

Loma Linda University. Del E. Webb Memorial Library. University Archives

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