In signal-detection procedures, which of the following is a "false alarm"?
A) A subject says "no target" when there was no target.
B) A subject says "no target" when there was a target.
C) A subject says "yes target" when there was no target.
D) A subject is supersensitive to stimuli of very minute intensities, such that, for instance, he can hear tones others cannot.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A false alarm occurs when the subject reports the presence of a target when there was no target present. Choice A is a correct response because the subject correctly reports the absence of a target. Choice B is an incorrect response because the subject misses the presence of a target. Choice D is not a response option in signal-detection procedures and describes a characteristic of sensory sensitivity.

In Signal-Detection Procedures, Which of the Following Is a "False