The time course of categorization

The extended generalized context model (EGCM) is presented as a formal model of the time course of categorization of complex stimuli. The model explains the effects of time constraints on categorization. The EGCM accurately accounts for existing data on categorization under time pressure. The model was tested further in 2 experiments. In both experiments, processing time in a perceptual categorization task was restricted by unpredictable peremptory response signals. In Experiment I, restrictions of processing time had systematic effects on response proportions, and these effects were well. explained by the EGCM. Experiment 2 showed that perceptual salience and utility have independent effects on the time course of categorization, as predicted by the EGCM. The EGCM's relation to other models of the time course of categorization is discussed.