Single-Category Implicit Association Task: Chocolate (SC-IAT: Chocolate) *************** * Background *************** The Single-Category Implicit Association Task: Chocolate (SC-IAT:Chocolate) is a computer task based on a design published by Katrijn Houben and Anita Jansen (2015). The task measures implicit associations between the word "chocolate" and the word "stop" versus the word "go." For details of their design, it is strongly recommended that users read: Houben, K., & Jansen, A. 2015. Chocolate equals stop. Chocolate-specific inhibition training reduces chocolate intake and go associations with chocolate. Appetite. 87: 318-323. We adapted Houben and Jansen's task for administration with children. *************** * Design *************** The task consists of 3 blocks: Block 1: 16 trials (Sort pictures into the categories "stop" versus "go") Block 2: 48 trials (An additional category "chocolate" is introduced. It may be paired with "stop" or with "go") Block 3: 48 trials (The pairing of chocolate with "stop" or "go" is reversed) A Research Assistant should assign participants to one of 4 groups prior to beginning the study. This assignment will determine the position of categories displayed at the top of the screen in each of the 3 blocks. For details, see SCIAT Design.pdf. *************** * SOFTWARE *************** The materials provided for this task require DirectRT Precision Timing Software (Empirisoft) to run. This task was designed using DirectRT Version 2012.4.0.166, but may be compatible with earlier or later versions of the software. DirectRT can be purchased from Empirisoft (http://www.empirisoft.com/directrt.aspx). *************** * HARDWARE *************** DirectRT has modest system requirements. Review the latest recommendations (http://www.empirisoft.com/directrt.aspx). At the time of this writing, recommendations included: Minimum 256mb memory Minimum 16mb of video memory Minimum 500mHz processor This computer task can be performed using a standard keyboard, though this is not recommended. If using a standard keyboard, then the instructions for "Left" and "Right" buttons should be mapped to the numeric keys "1" and "2," respectively. Left = 1 Right = 2 Standard keyboards can be difficult to use for those with low dexterity or low familiarity with keyboards. Since this task was developed for children, we recommend the use of large buttons, such as those provided by Origin Instruments (OrbyTM Switch; http://www.orin.com/access/orby/ ). We also recommend careful attention to the color of the buttons. For example, avoid red or green buttons since these colors are associated with concepts "stop" and "go" in many cultures.