A multinomial model for short-term priming in word identification

A simple multinomial model for short-term priming in perceptual word identi fication is presented. In the experiments to which the model is applied, pr ime words are presented just prior to a flashed target word, and subjects m ust decide which of 2 alternative words matches the target. The model assum es that on some proportion of trials, confusion among the words leads to th e decision being based on I of the prime words instead of the target. In ad dition, it is assumed that subjects sometimes discount a prime that matches 1 of the test alternatives and so choose the alternative that does not mat ch. With these assumptions, the model fits the data from 5 experiments (inc luding 4 used to develop the model known as ROUSE [responding optimally wit h unknown sources of evidence]; D. E. Huber, R. Shiffrin, K. Lyle, & K. Ruy s, 2001). The multinomial model fits the data about as well as the ROUSE mo del and so should lead to further development and critical testing of both models.