Using ROC curves to test models of recognition memory: The relationship between presentation duration and slope

Many theories of memory predict that the slope of the z-transformed receive r-operating characteristic (ROC) curve should decrease with increases in th e memory strength of old items. While several prior studies have failed to demonstrate this effect, the results of two experiments demonstrate that in creasing presentation duration can reduce the slope of the z-transformed RO C curve. These results raise questions about the generality of prior result s and of dual-process theories designed to accommodate those results. We cl ose by emphasizing that determining the experimental circumstances that aff ect whether or not the slope of the z-transformed ROC curve decreases will provide important constraints on theories of recognition memory.