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A robust classic: illusory correlations are maintained under extended operant learning

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In the present research, we argue for the robustness of illusory correlations (ICs, Hamilton & Gifford, 1976) regarding two boundary conditions suggested in previous research. First, we argue that ICs are maintained under extended experience. Using simulations, we derive conflicting predictions....

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Kutzner, Florian (Author) , Vogel, Tobias (Author) , Freytag, Peter (Author) , Fiedler, Klaus (Author)
Format: Article (Journal)
Language:English
Published: January 01, 2011
In: Experimental psychology
Year: 2011, Volume: 58, Issue: 6, Pages: 443-453
ISSN:2190-5142
DOI:10.1027/1618-3169/a000112
Online Access:Verlag, lizenzpflichtig, Volltext: https://doi.org/10.1027/1618-3169/a000112
Verlag, lizenzpflichtig, Volltext: https://econtent.hogrefe.com/doi/10.1027/1618-3169/a000112
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Author Notes:Florian Kutzner, Tobias Vogel, Peter Freytag, and Klaus Fiedler
Description
Summary:In the present research, we argue for the robustness of illusory correlations (ICs, Hamilton & Gifford, 1976) regarding two boundary conditions suggested in previous research. First, we argue that ICs are maintained under extended experience. Using simulations, we derive conflicting predictions. Whereas noise-based accounts predict ICs to be maintained (Fielder, 2000; Smith, 1991), a prominent account based on discrepancy-reducing feedback learning predicts ICs to disappear (Van Rooy et al., 2003). An experiment involving 320 observations with majority and minority members supports the claim that ICs are maintained. Second, we show that actively using the stereotype to make predictions that are met with reward and punishment does not eliminate the bias. In addition, participants’ operant reactions afford a novel online measure of ICs. In sum, our findings highlight the robustness of ICs that can be explained as a result of unbiased but noisy learning.
Item Description:Gesehen am 12.07.2022
Physical Description:Online Resource
ISSN:2190-5142
DOI:10.1027/1618-3169/a000112

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