Signal detection theory assumes that:
A) a person's ability to detect a stimulus depends only on the stimulus.
B) people will always be biased toward thinking the stimulus was not there, even if it was.
C) a person's response depends on the stimulus and on a decision about it.
D) people will always be biased toward thinking the stimulus was there, even if it wasn't.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Signal detection theory states that a person's response to a stimulus does not solely depend on the stimulus itself, but also on their decision-making process. This includes factors such as their motivation, expectations, and previous experiences. Therefore, choice C is the best option as it accurately reflects this aspect of the theory. Choices A and D both present extreme views that do not consider the role of decision-making in signal detection. Choice B suggests that people will always be biased in one direction, but in reality, bias can vary depending on the situation and individual factors.

Signal Detection Theory Assumes That