Direction of a Figural Retroactive-Effect as a Function of Apparent Temporal Overlap of Test and Inducing Figures

Abstract

In a series of experiments using a concentric circles figure the direction of the figural retroactive-effect is related to the frequency with which Ss report apparent temporal overlap of inducing and test figures under different conditions of testing. The results suggest that figural retroactive-effects showing attraction of the test figure toward the inducing figure result from S's perception of a visual illusion during the stimulus sequence. Factors determining the occurrence of both apparent temporal overlap and attraction effects are investigated.