Comprehension of Graphs and Subsequent Decisions: Bottom-Up and Top-Down Processing

Graph comprehension requires bottom-up processing from the graphic representation, and top-down processing guided by knowledge and attitudes. The present study examined which of the bottom-up process phases (extraction, interpretation, and decision) were affected by top-down processing derived from impressions and social attitudes. The results suggested that top-down processing driven by impressions that had been formed temporarily in specific contexts affected both the extraction of information and the subsequent decision phase, whereas top-down processing that was driven by attitudes formed over a long period of time based on social norms affected only the decision phase. In the latter, decisions were made without involving bottom-up processing.