Psychology 1000 Chapter 5: Psych 1000 Chapter 5 Review Notes.docx

• School: Western University
• Department: Psychology
• Course: Psychology 1000
• Professor: Wolfe/ Quinlan

Document Summary

Sensation the stimulus-detection process by which our sense organs respond to and translate environmental stimuli into nerve impulses that are sent to the brain. Perception active process of organizing the stimulus input and giving it meaning. Stimulus detection absolute threshold designated as the lowest intensity at which a stimulus can be detected 50% of the time. Signal detection theory concerned with the factors that influence sensory judgments: decision criterion standard of how certain a person must be that a stimulus is present before they will say they detect it. Increased rewards for noticing stimuli often results in lower detection thresholds. Increased danger/punishment for noticing stimuli often raises detection threshold. Value for weights = 1/50, therefore if 50 lbs. is lifted, increased weight will only be detected at 51 lbs. Doesn"t apply to extremely high or low stimulation intensities . Sensory adaptation the diminishing sensitivity to an unchanging stimulus: perception of stimuli will decrease if constantly present.