Abstract: In masked prime paradigm, negative compatibility effect, with performance benefits on incompatible trials and cost on compatible trials, occurs when mask-target SOA is 100 to 200ms. This effect can be interpreted by three theories: self-inhibition theory, object-updating theory and mask-triggered inhibition theory. All of which probe into the mechanism of negative compatibility effect, including whether it occurs in perception stage or response stage and involves self- inhibition or stimuli-triggered inhibition. The mechanism of negative compatibility effect need to be further explored.

Key words: visual masking, subliminal priming, negative compatibility effect