| Signal Detection Theory (SDT) has had, and continues to have, an
enormous impact on many branches of psychology. Although its initial
applications were in the interpretation of sensory processes, its domain
has since widened considerably. For example, concepts derived
from SDT are widely used in memory research and in studies of the
processing of verbal information. SDT has been called by many a revolution
and I do not think that is an exaggeration. A basic understanding
of SDT has become essential for anyone with a serious interest in
experimental psychology.
The classic work on SDT is Signal Detection Theory and Psychophysics
by D. M. Green and J. A. Swets, originally published by Wiley
in 1966 and reprinted with corrections by Kreiger in 1974. This remains
a very useful source for advanced researchers and those with
mathematical sophistication. However, for many readers, the descriptions
and derivations will be beyond their grasp. A more recent and
more user-friendly text is Detection Theory: A User's Guide by N. A.
Macmillan and C. D. Creelman, originally published in 1991. The
second edition of this book has just been published by Lawrence
Erlbaum Associates. The Macmillan and Creelman book still assumes
a good deal of mathematical and statistical sophistication, but it makes
more use of visual analogies, and is intended especially as a practical
guide to those actively involved in areas of research that depend on a
good understanding and appreciation of SDT. In their preface,
Macmillan and Creelman state "It could be the basic text in a one-se-
mester graduate or upper level undergraduate course." However some
undergraduates may find it too detailed if they simply want to get a
basic understanding of SDT. |
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