Designing a Measure of Visual Selective Attention to Assess Individual Differences in Information Processing

Abstract

A new method for determining individual differ ences in information processing was developed and illustrated. The measure, Visual Selective Attention, was constructed according to the parameters and specifications of a standardized measure of auditory selective attention. Emphasis was placed upon es tablishing the relationship of this new measure with traditional measures of information processing (i.e., perceptual style and selective attention). The results provided initial evidence for the reliability and val idity of the new measure. Applications for Visual Selective Attention and interpretation of the find ings are discussed in view of the current state of the information-processing literature. Implications for additional research focus upon the practical appli cations of the new measure.