Target-mask similarity in backward recognition masking of perceived tone duration

Abstract

Previous research using a backward recognition masking paradigm revealed that the perceived duration of a target increased with actual target duration, the time available for processing the target, and the duration of the mask. A model was developed which submits that the percept of target duration increases during the presentation of the target and the following silent interval. The mask terminates the growth of the perceived duration of the target. In addition, the perceived duration of the mask adds something to the final duration judgment. The model has provided a good description of duration perception for both tones and vowels, by several converging measures. Yet, in the previous studies, the target and mask were identical in all respects except for duration. The influence of the masking tone may possibly have been limited to this idiosyncratic situation. The present study explored this possibility by manipulating the frequency similarity between the target and masking tones. The target and masking tones could now differ in both duration and frequency. The earlier results were replicated, demonstrating that an identity of the target and masking tones is not a necessary condition for the previous findings. © 1978 Psychonomic Society, Inc.