Recognition memory for words, pictures, and words + pictures

Abstract

Using the method of signal detection theory (SDT), recognition memory was measured in two groups of Ss, with one group seeing words alone and pictures alone and the other group seeing words alone and pictures + words. Both groups were run for three sessions under each of three presentation probability conditions. Recognition memory was better for pictorial stimuli in each group, but there was no improvement in recognition memory for the combined cues of word + picture over picture alone. Four measures of recognition memory, including two based on SDT and one based on high threshold theory, were highly correlated. © 1972, The Psychonomic Society, Inc., Vol. 27 (6). All rights reserved.