Decay of iconic memory traces is related to psychometric intelligence: A fixed-links modeling approach

Several memory processes have been examined regarding their relation to psychometric intelligence with the exception of sensory memory. This study examined the relation between decay of iconic memory traces, measured with a partial-report task, and psychometric intelligence, assessed with the Berlin Intelligence Structure test, in 111 participants. Using a fixed-links modeling approach, the exponential decay of iconic memory traces was quantified and separated from the effects of (systematic variance due to) subsidiary processes unrelated to this decay. Higher psychometric intelligence was associated with slower decay of iconic memory traces even when the influence of selective and divided attention was controlled for. These findings provide first experimental evidence for a functional relationship between information processing in sensory memory and individual levels of psychometric intelligence. The use of fixed-links models is discussed with regard to delineating processes in a repeated-measures design.

Research highlights
► Decay of iconic memory traces can be delineated using fixed-links models.
► Slower decay of iconic memory traces went with higher psychometric intelligence.
► Memory processes are related to intelligence even independently from attention.