Choice Reaction Time as a Function of Auditory S-R Correspondence, Age and Sex

Abstract

This study was concerned with the effect of a reversal in auditory S-R correspondence on the reaction time of two disparate ago groups; a younger group between 18 and 25 and an older group between 65 and 86. The task involved depressing the correct one of two finger keys upon onset of a 1000 cps, 85 db monaural tone presented through earphones. Subjects performed on two blocks of trials; one block involving uncrossed reactions (responding with hand ipsilateral to ear stimulated) and the other block involving crossed reactions (responding with hand contralateral to ear stimulated). Results revealed significant differences in RT as a function of age, sex and S-R correspondence. Reversal of the S-R relationship produced significantly greater slowing for older than for younger subjects and for females than for males.