Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Reaction times refer to the time it takes for an individual to respond to a stimulus after it has been presented. It reflects cognitive processing and motor response.
Related terms
Stimulus-Response Compatibility: How well a stimulus and the required response are aligned; compatibility can affect reaction times.
Hick's Law: A principle suggesting that as choices or stimuli increase, reaction time also increases due to decision-making processes.
Anticipation: The ability to predict or expect a stimulus before it occurs, which can influence reaction times.