Sensory, Attentional and Perceptual Processes
Sensation
Sensation begins when sensory receptors respond to physical stimulation. Vision, hearing, smell, taste and touch provide information about the environment.
Attention
Attention involves selecting and allocating limited processing resources. Selective attention allows us to focus on relevant information while filtering competing stimuli.
Perception
Perception involves organising and interpreting sensory information. What we perceive is influenced not only by sensory input but also by context, expectations and previous experience.
Gestalt Principles
Gestalt psychology highlights principles such as figure-ground organisation, proximity, similarity, continuity and closure. These explain how people organise elements into meaningful wholes.
Illusions
Visual illusions demonstrate that perception is an active process. The same sensory information can sometimes produce a perception that differs from physical reality because the brain uses contextual cues and organising principles.
Explained MCQs
- What is the difference between sensation and perception?
Answer: Sensation involves receiving sensory information, while perception involves organising and interpreting it.
Explanation: Sensory receptors provide input; perceptual processes help turn that input into an experienced and meaningful representation. - Why can two people interpret the same situation differently?
Answer: Attention, expectations, experience and context can influence perception.
Explanation: Perception is not simply a direct copy of the external world.
Application
Explain how a student can miss a teacher’s instruction while looking directly at the teacher. Use the concept of selective attention.