Measuring Automatic Cognition: Practical Advances for Sociological Research Using Dual-process Models

• In Event: 078 - Section on Sociology of Culture Refereed Roundtable Session
  In Refereed Roundtable 100min: Table 15. Methods in Cultural Sociology

Abstract

Dual-processing models of cognition have proved useful for studying social action across a wide variety of sociological domains. However, these models have primarily informed theoretical - rather than empirical - innovation. Empirical claims about automatic processing, in particular, often remain untested or are tested using survey-based, forced choice measures, due in large part to a lack of viable alternatives. We argue that the affectation misattribution procedures (AMP) is superior to forced-choice items for measuring automatic processes, both on theoretical and empirical grounds. Moreover, we propose a planned missing data approach to collecting AMP data that in many instances overcomes some of the practical concerns associated with AMPs in order to maximize the benefits of this measurement strategy for sociologists.

Authors

• Andrew Miles, University of Toronto Mississauga

• Cyrus J. Schleifer, University of Oklahoma

• Raphaël Charron-Chénier, Duke University