Abstract
Recognition memory can improve for events with sense of agency (SoA), perhaps due to the self-reference effect. This effect is more likely to occur in recollection, one of two recognition processes. We examined whether SoA promotes recollection, rather than familiarity, in recognition memory. In our experiment, word stimuli were presented in response to participants’ voluntary keypress. The procedure manipulated the degree of SoA through congruence between action orientation and stimulus location. In the following test phase, the Remember/Know procedure measured recollection and familiarity of learned stimuli. Action–stimulus congruence modulated the SoA rating score. Contrary to previous findings and our hypotheses, however, the Hit, Remember, or Know rates of the learned stimuli did not differ between conditions. We discuss the apparent lack of a relationship between SoA and recognition in terms of different experimental procedures.
