The Method of Constant Stimuli

Paper Summary:

This paper focuses on the method of constant stimuli in which a random order of stimuli is presented numerous times to the subject in order to determine either absolute or difference thresholds. This method is used in every day situations such as in a simple hearing test in an elementary school or doctor's office. The method of constant stimuli has been used successfully in experiments involving both odor thresholds and tactile discrimination tasks, suggesting its usefulness in studies involving several, if not all of the senses.

Outline:
Abstract
Discussion
Application
Conclusions

From the Paper:

"Psychophysics is an area of science developed by Gustav Fechner that attempts to identify relationships between the physical and psychological aspects of experiences (Wolfe et al., 2006). Every day, people are exposed to events in the material world that come to be filtered and interpreted by their individual perceptions of the events. Therefore, what comes in through the senses is greatly influenced by mental processes and the subjective experiences of the stimuli. This is an important area of study because it serves to highlight the ways in which the mind interacts with the outside world and the stimuli with which it is constantly being presented. Psychophysics goes beyond a simple description of sensation and seeks to understand the relationship between incoming information and how people perceive it in order to construct their own understanding of the environment."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Lotsch, J., Lange, C., & Hummel, T. (2004). A simple and reliable method for clinical assessment of odor thresholds. Chemical Senses, 29, 311-317.
• Sunanto, J. & Nakata, H. (1998). Indirect tactual discrimination of heights by blind and blindfolded sighted subjects. Perceptual and Motor Skills, 86(2), 383-386.
• Wolfe, J. M., Kluender, K. R., Levi, D. M., Bartoshuk, L. M., Herz, R. S., Klatzky, R. L., et al. (2006). Sensation and perception. Sunderland, MA: Sinauer Associates.

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