Use of a Signal Detection Paradigm to Assess Subjective Intersection Points in a Target Location Task

Abstract

Numerous tasks require individuals to assess whether two or more moving points are on a collision path. However, evidence available, on decision making in spatial manipulation tasks, is lacking. This study attempted to assess individual's ability to determine the point of intersection between two cursors. The distance between a specified target and the actual intersection point (2 levels), and the extrapolation distance (2 levels) was varied. Using a signal detection paradigm, measures of sensitivity (d') and decision criterion (B) were obtained. Therefore, 2 × 2 within subjects design was employed. Results indicated that distance between the target and actual intersection point had the greatest effects on sensitivity, while extrapolation distance differences were minimal. Conclusions based on the results are limited due to poor subject performance.