Visual features transitioning from VWM to LTM increase conscious access breakthrough times

Abstract

A memory in visual working memory (VWM) can influence the time it takes to become consciously aware of a feature similar to this memory. When the same visual feature is presented multiple times in a row, this feature transitions from VWM to long-term memory (LTM). The current experiment shows that when this transition from VWM to LTM takes place, the effect on conscious awareness decreases and eventually disappears. This shows that it is VWM which influences visual awareness and that LTM has no effect on visual awareness.