Wason Selection Task - Dual Systems Model

What was the aim of the Wason Selection Task?

What research method was used in the Wason Selection Task?

Participants were shown a set of cards and asked a question about a rule relating to the cards. Participants were asked which cards they would turn over to _____ the rule.

Participants in the Wason Selection Task were typically unbiased in their card selection.

Match the following terms with their definitions:

Wason Selection Task Overview

Conducted by Wason in 1968 to explore the dual-process model of thinking and decision-making.
Investigated the roles of intuitive versus rational thinking in decision-making processes.

Aim of the Task

Intended to analyze how intuitive and rational thought processes influence decision-making.
Focused on understanding cognitive mechanisms behind reasoning and judgments.

Research Methodology

Utilized a lab test format to ensure high internal validity.
Controlled variables allowed for precise measurement of participants' responses and thought processes.

Experimental Procedure

Participants presented with cards that illustrate a specific rule.
Task required participants to determine which cards to turn over to validate the rule, highlighting their reasoning approach.

Key Findings

Observed that participants frequently exhibited 'matching bias' in decision-making.
This bias indicates that decisions were predominantly influenced by how the question was framed rather than logical reasoning.
Results point to the dominance of intuitive thinking over rational thought in such decision-making scenarios.

Explore the Wason Selection Task and its implications for the dual-process model of thinking and decision making. This quiz focuses on key concepts, research methods, and aims of the study. Perfect for students of psychology looking to deepen their understanding of cognitive processes.