The ability of reaction time tests to detect simulation: An investigation of contextual effects and criterion scores

Two experiments examined whether experience gained with a series of reaction time tests [Computerized Tests of Information Processing (CTIP); Tombaugh, T. N. & Rees, L. (in press). Computerized Tests of Information Processing (CTIP). Toronto, Canada: Multi-Health Systems Inc.] influenced the performance of individuals instructed to simulate the cognitive effects of a traumatic brain injury. Experience with the tests was manipulated by varying the order and number of tests administered for simulator and control groups. Simulators responded significantly slower and exhibited increased variability compared to controls. Performance was not affected by order or number of tests. The results of a third experiment showed that criterion scores could be established that correctly classified members of control, simulator, mild TBI, and severe TBI groups. Overall, the results suggest that the performance of the simulators was based on a context-free, absolute judgment and that reaction time measures show considerable promise for detecting low effort.