Perceptual processing time differences owing to visual field asymmetries

Neuroreport. 2007 Jul 2;18(10):1067-70. doi: 10.1097/WNR.0b013e3281ac22f1.

Abstract

Recent experiments have reported increased endpoint accuracy for movements performed in the lower vs. the upper visual field, suggesting that there is superior feedback-based processing in the lower visual field owing to a visuomotor subsystem processing advantage. Differences, however, in the perceptual subsystem may also play a role in the lower visual field advantage. In this study, participants performed an inspection time task, a measure of perceptual processing time, requiring the identification of an asymmetrical 'pi' stimulus presented in the central, upper, or the lower visual field for a brief period. Significant differences between the percentage of correct identifications between visual fields indicated a lower visual field advantage over upper visual field for perceptual identification.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Functional Laterality / physiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Photic Stimulation / methods
  • Reaction Time / physiology*
  • Time Factors
  • Visual Fields / physiology*
  • Visual Perception / physiology*