Distributional learning modulates tone detection in noise, with better detection of high-probability frequencies¶

Claim · All claims
Evidence · 1 study · causal r2 · q3
Currency · newest study 2025 · not yet checked against its sources · not reviewed by a person

Subclaims¶

q3 i? Stimulus probability strongly modulates tone detection in noise across Exp 1b-f, with better detection of high-probability frequencies at the distribution mode. → Luthra 2025

Evidence¶

Luthra 2025¶

Luthra, S., Luor, A., Tierney, A. T., Dick, F., & Holt, L. L. (2025). Statistical learning dynamically shapes auditory perception. npj Science of Learning. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41539-025-00328-z

q3 · i? · causal · r2

Online tone-in-noise detection experiments (Exp 1b-f) sampled five frequencies with unimodal (75%) or bimodal (40.6% at edges) distributions; a significant Freq × Exp interaction (η² = 0.169) showed "better detection of high-probability frequencies at the distribution mode." Detection of a 100%-probable 1000 Hz tone (~77.9%) did not differ from modal detection in unimodal distributions (~75.3%).

"In Exp 1, stimulus probability stro ngly modulates tone detection in noise across Exp 1b-f with better detection of high-probability frequencies at the distribution mode"

Discussion¶

Related Claims¶

• Bimodal frequency distributions induce a 'dual spotlight' in tone detection — a narrower finding that bears on this claim
• Graded proximity effects: equiprobable rare tones near a distribution mode are detected better than distant ones — related
• Distributional learning exhibits hysteresis, with prior distributions influencing judgments after distributions change — related
• Distributional learning across a task-irrelevant dimension slows duration decisions for low-probability frequencies — related
• Perceptual sensitivity and decisions rapidly update in volatile statistical contexts — related
• Massed exposure to a single frequency produces lasting suppression of detection at distant frequencies — related