Attention Lecture 2: Treisman's Attenuation Model

Attention Models

• Treisman's attenuation model of attention describes attention as a process where multiple messages are processed in parallel, with the strength of the unattended message being reduced (attenuated) by an attenuator.

Critique of Broadbent's Filter Model

• The Dichotic Listening Task results refute Broadbent's Filter Model, which suggests that unattended messages are completely filtered out and not processed.
• This is because the task shows that some parts of the unattended message can still be recalled, contradicting the idea of complete filtering.

Comparison of Attention Models

• In contrast to Broadbent's Filter Model, Treisman's attenuation model allows for some processing of unattended messages, albeit with reduced strength.
• The attenuator in Treisman's model reduces the strength of the unattended message, but does not completely eliminate it.

Attenuation Process

• The attenuation process in Treisman's model reduces the strength of the unattended message, making it less likely to be recognized.
• The quality of the signal impacts recognition in Treisman's model, with stronger signals being more likely to be recognized.

Recognition and Recall

• Recognition in Treisman's model depends on the familiarity and relevance of words, with more familiar and relevant words being more likely to be recognized.
• Some parts of the unattended message get recalled because they are strong enough to overcome the attenuation process, particularly if they are familiar or relevant.

Attenuator's Role

• The attenuator in Treisman's model plays a crucial role in reducing the strength of the unattended message, making it less likely to be recognized.