Time Estimation: Effects of Cognitive Task, Presentation Rate, and Delay

Abstract

The variables of which subjective time is a function extend throughout a myriad of “people, places, and things.” This study measured subjective estimations of time as a function of complexity of cognitive task including arithmetic and recall (within subjects), the rate of stimulus (digit span) information (between subjects), and the delay between stimulus presentation and estimations of time (between subjects). A mixed analysis of variance 2 × 2 × 3 (repeated-measures) factorial design showed that retrospective time estimations were significantly different as a function of the main effects of rate of digit presentation and delay. Men and women showed no differences with no significant interactions so their data were pooled. Quotient values for ratios of delayed versus immediate estimates and slow versus fast rates showed overestimates of “real time.” Explanations based on the “storage-size model,” the “attention-allocation” model, and comparisons with Pedri and Hesketh's 1993 data are discussed.