Embedded Figures Test
Introduction
The Embedded Figures Test (EFT) is a psychological assessment tool used to measure an individual's ability to identify a simple figure from a complex, or embedded, figure. It is a measure of field independence, or the ability to separate details from the overall context. The EFT is often used in research and clinical settings to investigate cognitive style, attentional focus, and perceptual capabilities.
History and Development
The Embedded Figures Test was developed by American psychologist Herman Witkin in the 1970s as part of his broader research into individual differences in perceptual style. Witkin's work was influenced by earlier research in the field of perceptual psychology, notably the work of Max Wertheimer and the Gestalt school of psychology. The EFT was designed to operationalize the concept of field dependence-independence, a key aspect of Witkin's theory of cognitive style.
Test Format
The EFT typically consists of a series of complex figures, each of which contains a simpler figure embedded within it. The participant's task is to identify the simpler figure as quickly and accurately as possible. The test is usually timed, with the participant given a set amount of time to find the embedded figure in each complex figure. The EFT can be administered individually or in a group setting, and can be used with both children and adults.
Underlying Theory
The EFT is based on the theory of field dependence-independence, which posits that individuals differ in their ability to separate a figure from its surrounding field. Field-independent individuals are able to focus on details without being distracted by the overall context, while field-dependent individuals tend to perceive the field as a whole and may have difficulty separating details from the context. This cognitive style is thought to influence a wide range of behaviors and cognitive processes, including problem-solving, learning, and social perception.
Uses and Applications
The EFT has been used in a variety of research and clinical contexts. In research settings, it has been used to investigate the relationship between cognitive style and various psychological and behavioral variables, such as academic achievement, learning style, and personality traits. In clinical settings, the EFT has been used to assess perceptual and attentional abilities in individuals with various neurological and psychiatric conditions, including autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and schizophrenia.
Criticisms and Controversies
While the EFT has been widely used in research and clinical practice, it has also been the subject of criticism and controversy. Some researchers have questioned the validity and reliability of the EFT, arguing that it may not accurately measure field dependence-independence. Others have raised concerns about the cultural bias of the EFT, noting that performance on the test may be influenced by cultural factors such as education and language. Despite these criticisms, the EFT remains a popular tool for assessing cognitive style and perceptual abilities.