Signal detection among young adults using visual target detection test

Abstract

Signal detection deals with the measurement of ability to differentiate between patterns of information and to keep away from the distraction. Cues are generally presented through visual or verbal. Visual search is an effective and a common method of information processing. In this study, a total sample (N=270) both male and female of age ranging from 17 to 24 years with Mage = 21.8, SD = 2.72 attempted a computer based visual target detection test. Different types of stimuli and different mode of presentation was adopted involving black and white, colour and randomly positioned picture cues. Main measure involved is the scrutiny of the hits, misses, false alarm and correct rejection along with reaction time. Then, the observer recorded data is fed in SPSS 22.0 for analysing the results and discussion. Results indicate that there is no significant difference between males and females with respect to hits, misses, false alarm and correct rejection. Random sets evoked more no of miss/false alarms. There is a significant difference in reaction time between males and females with regard to black and white stimuli. The study gave the authors an insight into the understanding of signal detection phenomenon and its potential application areas like military services, data analytics etc, where the eye-limb coordination is essential.