Dimensions of information processing: Physiological reactions to motion pictures

Information processing is studied using physiological reactions to motion p ictures as a major tool. In study I (N = 44) physiological reactions are su bjected to multivariate analysis revealing three major dimensions: familiar ization, effort, and readiness (cf Pribram and McGuinness, 1992). Each dime nsion contrasts controlled processing with automatic processing. In study I I (N = 72) and study III (N = 96) the dimensions are tested. In those studi es specific information is provided prior to film onset and the effects on the physiological reactions are studied. The results generally confirm the model. Study IV (N = 44) is concerned with individual differences in inform ation processing. Reactions to seven films are analysed with generalizabili ty for each dimension separately. The results show that individual dimensio n scores are highly consistent across different situations. In the discussi on it is argued that the three information processing dimensions identified here can be conceived as stable personality dispositions, underlying indiv idual differences in learning and overt behaviour. Copyright (C) 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.