The radius of a pattern of lights in apparent motion was estimated by 60 Ss under various conditions. It was found that a white outline circle placed behind the lights would increase the estimation of the radius; the larger the circle, the larger the estimation of radius. Apparently when the circle is smaller than the true radius of the lights, there is a contrast effect; when the circle is larger, an assimilation effect. These results are consistent with results of other studies investigating a shift from assimilation to contrast under different sensory conditions.
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