Comparison of normalization theory and neural enhancement explanation of negative aftereffects.

Proposes that neural inhibitory interaction underlies negative aftereffects as well as figural aftereffects, with the former occurring when nontopographic principles are used by the nervous system to signal stimulus values and the latter when topographic coding is involved. Relationships between aftereffect data and information available about feature analysis from electrophysiological measurement and contour masking studies are examined with emphasis on tilt and movement aftereffects. It is concluded that even though the neural enhancement position cannot be tested in detail until more is known about tuning characteristics in sensory systems and the way cells respond to abrupt changes in stimulus value, in its present form it offers a more satisfactory explanation of negative aftereffects than normalization theory. There is little to support the latter claim that negative aftereffects occur as by-products of a perceptual adaptation process. (3 p. ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved).