The Influence of Age, Sex, and Specialized Training on the Vertical-Horizontal Illusion

Abstract

With the aim of investigating the perceptual processes responsible for perceptual illusions, we have studied the influence of age, sex and specialized training on two forms of the vertical-horizontal illusion. In Figure A, the vertical is a short distance away from the horizontal; in Figure B, the vertical meets the horizontal segment at its mid-point. Both figures were presented in brief (0.2 second) and long (1.0 second) tachistoscopic exposure, and in unlimited exposure. When time is unlimited. Illusion A increases up to 9–10 years and then remains constant and Illusion B decreases as a function of age and chiefly as a function of the degree of scientific training. The illusions are stronger in tachistoscopic perception than under conditions of umlimited exposure. Both illusions also increase in tachistoscopic perception with age except for science students. Under condition of unlimited time, women have stronger illusions than men. This difference does not occur in tachistoscopic perception. These results may be interpreted in terms of the interaction of three processes: interaction among the elements of a figure (field effects); perceptual activity which makes possible the passing from syncretism or multiplicity to organized perception; and the activity of measuring the elements relatively to each other. This latter activity develops with cultural level and especially with scientific training. It is more effective with men than with women, due, it is suggested, to the spatial factor being higher in men.