Research interests: Human Memory

Although my research interests in human memory are many, the modeling of recognition memory in terms of Signal Detection Theory (SDT) represents my theoretical orientation. As a result, most of my research is directed at understanding a number of recognition memory phenomena in terms of a SDT model. Accordingly, a fairly recent article (coauthor, John Wixted) addressed the empirical question of whether or not subjects use word-frequency-specific decision criteria in recognition memory judgments. The purpose of that research was to offer a better understanding of a well-known phenomenon in recognition memory (viz., the mirror effect for word frequency). For example, Gillund and Shiffrin (1984), in their Search of Associative Memory (SAM) model, assumed that subjects do use frequency-specific decision criteria. Our research on the difference between strength-based and frequency-based mirror effects in recognition memory argues persuasively against that assumption.

This research has provided the empirical groundwork for the understanding and interpretation of a number of memory phenomena other than the mirror effect for word frequency. Whether or not research participants make use of within-list criterion shifts (regardless of word frequency) in recognition memory is currently a topic of debate in a number of literatures. In that vein, I am hoping to submit articles in which I argue against such shifts for a number of reasons. Although my research activities have been somewhat limited in the past few years (Hurricane Katrina),  I am currently poised to extend my influence on the memory literature. 

Relevant publications: