Generalization of the classical signal detection theory for the less‐equal‐more task

Abstract

In the work, the psychophysical model of the signal detection theory with the nine outcomes (PMSDT9) for a quantitative description of the solution of the sensory problem of detecting an alternating differential signal was proposed. Unlike the classical model, PMSDT9 has the three probability density functions of the subjective intensity and the sign of the differential signal (instead of the two), the two criteria of displacement (instead of the one), and the nine outcomes (instead of the four). The proposed PMSDT9 model generalizes the application of the classical model of the signal detection theory for the less‐equal‐more task. The modified model provides for the existence of the two criteria (the left and the right) and such outcomes as inversion. The obtained experimental results are consistent with the ideas about the noise in sensory systems.