Reizwert

Reizwert is a German term used in psychology, psychophysics and sensory research to denote the numerical value assigned to the intensity of a stimulus in an experiment or measurement. It functions as the control parameter that specifies how strong the stimulus is, independent of how it is perceived. Depending on the discipline, the Reizwert may be expressed in physical units (for example, sound pressure in dB SPL, luminance in cd/m², or contact force in newtons) or on a psychophysical scale (dimensionless or logarithmic).

Perceived intensity often follows a non-linear relationship with the Reizwert, as described by psychophysical laws. Consequently, researchers calibrate and compare Reizwerte across individuals and conditions; the same physical value may produce different perceptual responses due to adaptation, attention, and individual sensitivity.

In the design of experiments and sensory evaluation, the Reizwert serves to map out psychometric functions, to systematically vary stimulus levels, and to calibrate devices and interfaces in human factors research.

Origin and scope: Reizwert combines Reiz (stimulus) and Wert (value). It is not a universally standardized physical quantity; the precise meaning depends on context. In literature it is often used interchangeably with stimulus intensity or stimulus level, particularly in German texts; in English-language sources, terms such as stimulus intensity or stimulus level are generally used.

See also: Reizschwelle, Reizstärke, Magnitude estimation, Psychophysics, Sensory measurement.