The influence of target-word affective properties on information processing time in a high speed visual-search task was studied. The 24 words were embedded in random-letter matrices, with one word per matrix. Subjects (5 male, 5 female) were tested. Words extreme on emotionality (positive vs negative affect) yielded significantly longer latencies than neutral words. The results were discussed in the light of related list-learning and problem-solving research.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
AmsterH.Evaluative judgment and recall in incidental learning. Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior, 1964, 3, 466–473.
2.
AnisfeldM.LambertW. E.When are pleasant words learned faster than unpleasant words?Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior, 1966, 5, 132–141.
3.
FarleyF. H.Word value and verbal learning revisited. Paper presented at Canadian Psychological Association annual meeting, Winnipeg, May, 1970.
4.
FarleyF. H.IgbaniI.Anagram solution-time as a function of solution-word tone. Paper presented at Canadian Psychological Association annual meeting, Toronto, June, 1969.
5.
KeppelG.Word value and verbal learning. Journal of Verbal Learning and Verbal Behavior, 1963, 1, 353–356.
6.
McNultyJ. A.IsnorC. J. E.Affective connotations of words as a factor in free recall learning. British Journal of Psychology, 1967, 58, 51–56.
