Stimulus generalization as a function of the frame of reference.

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Abstract
Five groups of 10 Ss each viewed a monochromatic light of 525 m[mu] (a middle-green) for 60 sec., and then were presented 12 different random series of wave lengths under instructions to respond only to the original color. The number of responses made to the different test stimuli constituted a gradient of generalization. Group 1 was tested with the series 485-525 m[mu], in 10-m[mu] steps; Group 2, 495-535 m[mu]; Group 3, 505-545 m[mu]; Group 4, 515-555 m[mu]; and Group 5, 525-565 m[mu]. Only Group 3, with a central value of 525 m[mu], produced a generalization gradient with a definite peak at 525 m[mu]; in all other cases the peak of responding was displaced toward the center of the series of test stimuli. The extent of this displacement varied directly with the degree of asymmetry of the test series around the value of the original stimulus. These results support the assumption that the generalization test series serves as a frame of reference against which the memory trace of the original stimulus is judged.[long dash]Authors.
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