Encoding variability accounts for false recognition of noncorresponding lures on the forced-choice Mnemonic Similarity Task

On forced-choice tests of recognition memory, performance is best when targets are paired with novel foils (A-X), followed by corresponding lures (A-A′), and then noncorresponding lures (A-B′). The current study tested the prediction that encoding variability accounts for reduced performance on A-B′ trials. Young adults (n = 43) completed the forced-choice Mnemonic Similarity Task while eye movements were recorded. Errors on the A-B′ test format were attributable to encoding variability; incorrect A-B′ trials were associated with more fixations to the B stimulus than the A stimulus at encoding. However, encoding variability did not account for accuracy on the A-A′ test format.