Is there a search in fixed-set memory search?

We discuss the hypothesis that structural factors in the fixed-set memory-search task may contribute to the standard linear set-size effect typically observed in this task. We constructed a lexical decision task that contained the same structural factors as the memory-search task. Two structural factors are discussed: (1) the priming of the probe by the memory set, and (2) the confounding of repetitions per item with set size. Our experiment demonstrated that these structural factors play a role in the set-size effect. The implications of these effects for the memory-search task and for models proposed to account for memory-search data are discussed.     

Perception of synthetic speech produced automatically by rule: Intelligibility of eight text-to-speech systems

We present the results of studies designed to measure the segmental intelligibility of eight text-to-speech systems and a natural speech control, using the Modified Rhyme Test (MRT). Results indicated that the voices tested could be grouped into four categories: natural speech, high-quality synthetic speech, moderate-quality synthetic speech, and low-quality synthetic speech. The overall performance of the best synthesis system, DECtalk-Paul, was equivalent to natural speech only in terms of performance on initial consonants. The findings are discussed in terms of recent work investigating the perception of synthetic speech under more severe conditions. Suggestions for future research on improving the quality of synthetic speech are also considered.     

In search of the point of no return: the control of response processes

Control processes underlying response inhibition were examined. Six Ss performed a visual choice reaction task and were occasionally presented with a tone that told them to withhold the response. Reaction time results were in agreement with a model that assumes a race between response activation and response inhibition processes. Event-related brain potentials, electromyogram, and continuous response measures showed that responses could be interrupted at any time. Evidence was obtained for two inhibitory mechanisms: inhibition of central activation processes and inhibition of transmission of motor commands from central to peripheral structures. Results have implications for the distinction between controlled and ballistic processes.     

Attaining and maintaining preparation: A comparison of attention in hyperactive,normal, and disturbed control children

The hypothesis that hyperactive children have a deficit in sustained attention was investigated. Eighteen children who had attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADDH), aged 7 to 11 years, were compared with children who had conduct disorder (n = 15), mixed conduct disorder and ADDH (n = 26), emotional disorder (n = 18), or learning disability (n = 22), and with normal controls (n = 15). The subjects were tested on three versions of the Continuous Performance Task. Sustained attention was assessed from performance with increasing time on task and from ability to prepare attention in response to a warning. Performance of all subjects deteriorated with increasing time and improved with the opportunity to prepare attention. Hyperactive subjects were not more adversely affected by increasing time, nor did they benefit less than controls from the opportunity to prepare attention. Data reanalysis after rediagnosis according to ICD-9 criteria did not change the results. This study did not confirm the hypothesis that hyperactive children have a unique sustained attention deficit.     

A re-conceptualization of Erikson's identity stage

This brief theoretical paper argues that Erikson's concept of identity was originally proposed as something constructed to a significant degree by the individual, i.e., an Instrumental Identity. With the decline in instrumentality in a consumer/service-oriented society, Erikson's original concept fits less well. A new conceptualization of identity, that of Existential Identity, is proposed. Thus, the earlier issue of success versus failure at achieving an Instrumental Identity has begun to give way to a new dimension--of being either a victim or a beneficiary in seeking an Existential Identity. Alternatively, the stage of "adolescence" can be viewed as a stage of seeking Instrumental Identity, and Keniston's new stage of "youth" as the locus of the new Existential Identity.     

Desired control,felt control,and dental pain: Recent findings and remaining issues

This paper reviews a series of studies examining how desire for control among dental patients affects their reaction to dental treatment. This research (across eight samples) indicates that low perceived control is associated with heightened stressful responding before and during dental treatment only among patients reporting high desire for control Thus, the impact of low perceived control appears to be moderated by desire for control. An additional finding is that manipulations of control (e.g., providing information, stress inoculation training) primarily impact patients reporting both a high desire for control (during treatment) and low initial perceived control. These data suggest that consideration of patients' desire for control in addition to their perceived control increases our ability to predict their level of dental stress. Additionally, these data provide initial support for the view that the discrepancy between high desire for control and low perceived control play a causal role in patient's perceptions of dental pain and fear.This research was supported by grant USPHS-NIH 5 RO1 DEO 9419-02 (H. L. and R. B. coprincipal investigators) and by BRSG/College of Dentistry seed money.