The comparison of perceptual load task performances of individuals with high and low working memory capacity

In this research, it was aimed to examine perceptual load and sensory processing features depend on working memory capacity. 58 university students, 31 women 27 men, aged between 18-25 participated in the research. The Letter-Number Sequencing Test (LNST) was used to measure working memory capacity, the Perceptual Load Task was used to examine perceptual load effect, the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (AASP) was used to determine sensory processing features, the Beck Depression Inventoy (BDI) was used to measure level of depression. Participants were divided into high and low groups according to their LNST scores. 2(working memory: high, low) x 2(perceptual load: high, low) x 2(distractor congruency: congruent, incongruent) and 2(working memory: high, low) x 2(perceptual load: high, low) x 2(irrelevant distractor: yes, no) factorial ANOVA were conducted for Perceptual Load Task. As a result of analysis, according to main effect of working memory, the reaction time of low capacity group was found shorter than high capacity group. According to interaction effect of working memory and perceptual load, in high perceptual load condition, the reaction time of low capacity group was found shorter. As a result of error rate analysis, according to main effect of working memory, it was determined that error rate of low capacity group was higher. According to interaction effect of working memory and distractor congruency, in incongruent distractor condition, the error rate of low capacity group was found higher. As a result of MANCOVA conducted for AASP, the low registration and sensation avoiding scores of low capacity group were higher than high capacity group. Structual equation model analysis consisting of variables in the research was conducted. Obtained research findings were evaluated in line with the literature. Suggestions were presented for future researches by specifying limits of the current research.