THE EFFECT OF METACOGNITIVE MONITORING ON VISUAL PERCEPTUAL ACCURACY UNDER COGNITIVE LOAD: A SIGNAL DETECTION THEORY APPROACH

Overview & Synopsis

This article examines the effect of metacognitive monitoring on visual perceptual accuracy under conditions of cognitive load, using the analytical framework of Signal Detection Theory (SDT). Visual perception often operates in environments characterized by limited attentional and cognitive resources. Previous research demonstrates that cognitive load degrades perceptual sensitivity, while metacognitive monitoring—individuals’ ability to evaluate and regulate their own cognitive processes—can partially compensate for such degradation. By integrating SDT parameters (sensitivity d′ and decision criterion c) with metacognitive judgments (confidence ratings and monitoring accuracy), this study synthesizes empirical findings from cognitive psychology and neuroscience. The analysis shows that increased cognitive load reduces perceptual sensitivity but that effective metacognitive monitoring improves decision calibration and reduces false alarms. The findings highlight the importance of metacognition as a regulatory mechanism in perceptual decision-making under resource constraints.