Feature detection versus feature integration in backward masking : an honors thesis [(HONRS 499)]

Abstract

The question of visual processing deficits among individuals within the schizophrenia spectrum is addressed. It has been found that individuals within the spectrum show an increased susceptibility to Type A backward masking. The backward masking design most suitable in studying schizophrenia processing deficits determines a critical stimulus duration (CSD) prior to the masking trials. This experiment looked at the difference between a forced choice (FC) backward masking procedure and a different choice (DC) backward masking procedure and suggests, in consenses with Nuechterlein and Dawson (1985), that each procedure taps a different, yet not necessarily seperate, level of processing.