DYNAMIC FIELD THEORY OF SEQUENTIAL EFFECTS

Abstract

Dynamic Field Theory (DFT; Erlhagen & Schöner, 2002) provides a framework how sensorimotor and perceptual decision making may arise from population representations by taking into account principles of Dynamic Systems Theory (Schöner, 2002). From a theoretical standpoint decision making may be divided into estimation –choosing from a continuum of choices by estimating the current stimulus value – and categorization –sorting the stimulus value into a finite number of discrete categories based on preinformation. DFT provides a framework how current stimulus information and preinformation may be flexibly combined and weighted according to current situational constraints (Wilimzig, 2006; Wilimzig & Schöner, 2006) such that the system may flexibly switch between estimation and categorization behavior. Sequential effects emerge from the representation of preinformation in this account.