Forced-Choice Recognition Tests: A Critical Review

Abstract
Recognition measures are commonly used to test the memory effects of advertisements. Unfortunately, there is a significant amount of response bias (particularly false claiming) involved with the simple “yes”/“no” type recognition tests currently being used by the advertising researchers. Recently a different procedure, called forced-choice recognition test, has been suggested as a means of removing the response bias. The present paper briefly reviews the past attempts made by the advertising researchers to secure a valid measure of recognition memory and then evaluates the efficacy of forced-choice recognition tests as a means of eliminating response bias in an advertising context.