Unitization of sublexical components in implicit memory for novel words

This study examines the role of componential knowledge and unitization proc esses in implicit memory. In two experiments, subjects studied novel words formed out of morphemes, syllables, or pseudosyllables. They then completed an implicit task requiring a judgment as to which of two items (one old, o ne new) was a better English word. Experiment I replicated previous results showing priming for nonwords formed out of morphemes and syllables but not pseudosyllables. This effect was present when orthographic factors were co ntrolled and, unlike explicit (recognition) memory, was equally strong foll owing visual and semantic processing. Experiment 2 showed that little primi ng was present across a variety of conditions in which the connections betw een components were altered across study and test. Results are interpreted as evidence for the role of perceptually based activation and integration p rocesses in implicit memory for novel stimuli.