Why are some individuals better in using negative templates to suppress distractors? Exploration of the inter-individual differences in proactive control efficiency

• DOI: 10.1167/jov.23.9.4915
• Publication Date: 2023-08-29T17:40:03Z
• Authors: Matthieu Chidharom; Nancy Carlisle
• Keywords: Cued speech; Template; Visual Search

Foreknowledge of distractor features can lead to more efficient visual search through negative templates, but large interindividual differences exist in the size template benefits. The cognitive factors underlying these individual remain unknown. Previous research suggests proactive control for templates vs. positive templates. We hypothesized that inter-individual efficiency may explain variability benefits induced by cues. analyzed data 138 participants engaged on a cued-visual task, with eye-movements recorded 36 them. RT was used as measure individuals' control. Individuals higher (lower standard deviation reaction times) exhibited after cues two measures. showed larger following compared neutral (r = -.27, p 0.002). Similarly, individuals directed fewer first saccades cued items .40, 0.018). No such relationship observed These results suggest highest strongest cues, and ability direct their overt attention away from items. Importantly, this work indicates utilization depends upon Our confirmed existence attentional Critically, we show drives use.