Attention and feature binding in the temporal domain

Abstract

Previous studies have shown that illusory conjunction can emerge for both spatially and temporally proximal objects. However, the mechanisms involved in binding in the temporal domain are not yet fully understood. In the current study, we investigated the role of attentional processes in correct and incorrect temporal binding, and specifically how feature binding is affected by the speed of attentional engagement. In two experiments, participants searched for a target in a rapid serial visual presentation stream and reported its colour and alphanumeric identity. Temporal binding errors were frequent. Critically, when participants reported the identity of a distractor instead of a target, they were also more likely to report the colour of this distractor. This association was observed both within and between individuals. These findings suggest that attentional engagement facilitates the binding of temporally co-occurring features. We discuss these results within a ‘diachronic’ framework of selective attention, and also consider other factors that contribute to temporal binding errors.