WHAT'S EASIER NOT TO THINK ABOUT? (ON THE NATURE OF STROOP INTERFERENCE)

Abstract

In this article the authors review classic experiments testing the impact of semantic loading of words to be ignored on Stroop interference. Common interpretations of this phenomenon are described. Empirical evidence showing that these interpretations are incorrect is discussed. In the authors' opinion interference appears as a result of work by the consciousness when it is verifying the correctness of ignoring automatically performed operations. Several consequences from the interpretation are provided. In particular, complicating the task to be ignored should lead to increase in interference. Hence, in the Stroop test, the more semantically loaded is text to be ignored, the longer it takes to name the color of this text.