psychological process by which we interpret sensory stimulation; reflects learning, expectations & attitudes
Perceptions
the stimulation of sensory receptors and the sensory information sent to the central nervous system (spinal cord & brain)
Sensations
Using models, ideas, and expectations to interpret sensory information
Top-Down Processing
taking sensory information in and then assembling and integrating it
Bottom-up Processing
the weakest amount of a stimulus you can sense.
Absolute Threshold
the minimum amount of difference that can be detected between two stimuli
Just Noticeable Difference
We become more sensitive to weak stimuli AND less sensitive to unchanging stimuli.
Sensory Adaptation
We notice things based on how strong they are (sights, sounds, etc.) AND our physical and psychological state
Signal Detection Theory
Stimuli that lie below our threshold of conscious awareness
Subliminal Messages
a recording technique in which a sound or message is recorded backward onto a track that is meant to be played forward
Backmasking
