Conflict and Number of Choice Alternatives

A comparison was made between the degree of conflict (decision time) with two choice alternatives and that with four choice alternatives. Data were presented utilizing an index of conflict which did not include simple reaction time or scanning time. Evidence was obtained supporting the use of the index. The author concluded that there was greater conflict (longer decision time) with two alternatives than with four, contrary to current theory on this topic. In addition, reducing the attractiveness of two of the alternatives in the four alternative case had the effect of increasing conflict.