Comparing The Stroop Effect And The Horse Race Model Phenomena

The Stroop Effect and the Horse Race Model Phenomena

Rochelle Hall

City University of New York- Brooklyn College

Abstract

Introduction

The Stroop test phenomena was first introduced to the world of Experimental Psychology by J.R. Stroop in the year 1935. This landmark article has since influenced the research and publication of over 700 other Stroop-related articles. MacLeod (1991, p. 163).

Everyday life introduces us to different stimuli simultaneously. However; in most cases we only pay close attention to the stimuli we consider most important. For example; you are studying for a major exam at the desk in your room. The television playing in the other room, the faucet running in the bathroom, your family’s laughter as they discuss an interesting topic and the squirrel scratching at your window are all competing for your attention. However; you must let yourself ignore all those noises and focus on studying the material for

Each independent variable had two levels. For congruency the levels were congruent vs. incongruent and for task the levels were name the word vs. name the color.

Results

Data from the Stroop test experiment was calculated using a 2x2 factorial design that was within subjects. There were two independent variables (factors), congruency and task. Both variables had two levels. For congruent the levels were congruent and incongruent and for task the levels were; name the color and name the word.

The results show a main effect of congruence that is; everything congruent was faster than everything incongruent. This main effect was significant for independent variable one; color. f(1, 18) = 127.06, p< 0.001

There was also a main effect for task type. That is; naming the word was faster than naming the color. This main effect was significant for independent variable two; word. f(1, 18) = 93.70, p<