Task-irrelevant spatial information reliably affects response times, as shown by faster reactions when stimulus and response locations are compatible compared to when incompatible. The observed Simon effect offers key insights into response selection mechanisms. While prior research has focused primarily on bottom-up factors modulating the Simon effect, recent studies highlight the impact of top-down information. In our previous work, we combined irrelevant spatial cues (horizontal and vertical position) with agency information superimposed on stick-figure manikins (manikin labels: “me”, “friend”, “colleague”) in a Simon task. Results revealed reduced Simon effects for the “me” label across both orientations.

The present study further examines this effect by manipulating the timing of the relevant (color) and irrelevant (agency label) information using jittered intervals (0-200 ms, five steps). In two experiments, agency cues preceded color cues. In a third experiment, the sequence was reversed. When agency information was presented first, Simon effects again were decreased for the “me” label. When color information appeared first, label effects were more subtle, depending on jitter and orientation.

Our findings suggest a robust influence of agency labels on both horizontal and vertical Simon tasks, with temporal jitter differentially affecting the magnitude of Simon effects across orientations. These results support the view that top-down agency cues dynamically interact with the timing of relevant and irrelevant stimulus features, modulating response selection.