PUB - Publikationen an der Universität Bielefeld

Most spatial computation models assume that in naming directional relations the frame of reference is chosen first before computing the validity of a spatial-category assignment (such as IN-FRONT). We report findings that challenge this assumption and suggest that an interaction exists between reference-frame choice and spatial categorization. A frame of reference may be chosen exactly because the intended object is located at an axis of this frame. This axis effect shows a contribution of perceptual factors and supports the view that salient orientations in visual space serve as cognitive reference directions. Subsequent localizations tend to stick with the reference frame initially chosen. As the initial choice was influenced by starting conditions (locatedness at an axis), this consistency effect can neither be accounted for by use of a default frame or nor by cognitive styles in spatial processing. It is concluded that interindividual differences in localization strategies can stem from a combination of different starting conditions and a consistency principle.