Psychology Chapter 1: Attention Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What is the first central principle of attention?

It is always defined in relation to a stimulus: you always pay attention to something

What is an example of an external stimulus?

A major decision

A funny story (correct)

Childhood memory

Mental to-do list

What is the second related principle of attention?

The modality of the stimulus should always be identified and noted.

What does it mean to say that attention functions are sometimes considered a prerequisite to other cognitive-linguistic operations?

Must be fulfilled before memory or executive functions is carried out. Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to say that attention is limited in capacity?

The human attention system can only process a limited number or amount of stimuli at once. Signup and view all the answers

How does the early filter model fall short?

It suggests that all stimuli receive preliminary analysis but irrelevant stimuli are filtered out at an early stage. Signup and view all the answers

How does the filter attenuation model differ from the early filter model?

It posits that unselected stimuli are not completely filtered out but rather are attenuated. Signup and view all the answers

How does the structural interference account suggest an alternative explanation to resource allocation?

Performance declines more for tasks using the same modality compared to different modalities. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between automatic and controlled processing?

Automatic processing occurs without attention, while controlled processing is individual-controlled and subject to capacity limitations. Signup and view all the answers

What are Sohlberg & Mateer's two frameworks of attention?

Focused attention and sustained attention. Signup and view all the answers

How may people with RHD, TBI, and dementia experience attention deficits?

RHD may have variability in attention, TBI can affect sustained and selective attention, while dementia often shows challenges in working memory. Signup and view all the answers

Why is assessment of attention difficult?

Different modalities do not have clear equivalents and it is hard to separate attention from other cognitive abilities. Signup and view all the answers

What are the principles of Direct Training Treatments?

Intervention should be based on a model, hierarchically organized, involve repetition, data collection, and facilitate real-world application. Signup and view all the answers

What are the principles of Self-Management Programs?

Adequate assessment, client involvement, outcome planning, and time for training and practice. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Central Principles of Attention

Attention is defined in relation to stimuli; it is always directed at something.
Stimuli can be external (e.g., stories, games, song lyrics) or internal (e.g., to-do lists, major decisions, memories).

Modality of Stimuli

Identifying the modality of a stimulus is essential, which includes auditory, visual, tactile, olfactory, and gustatory forms.

Prerequisites of Cognitive Functions

Attention is necessary before memory or executive functions can take place.
Both memorization and planning require focused attention on the relevant items or strategies.

Limited Capacity of Attention

Human attention has a limited capacity, unable to process all stimuli simultaneously.
Environments with many distractions (e.g., busy restaurants) illustrate the limitations of attention.

Early Filter Model Limitations

Suggests irrelevant stimuli are filtered early in processing after a preliminary analysis.
Studies show that salient unattended stimuli can still be reported, challenging this model's completeness.

Filter Attenuation Model

Proposes unselected stimuli are not completely filtered out but attenuated, allowing for potential later processing.

Structural Interference Account

Performance decline is greater when two tasks use the same sensory modality.
Suggests multiple resource pools might exist for different processing domains (verbal vs. spatial, visual vs. auditory).

Automatic vs. Controlled Processing

Automatic processing occurs without attention and is not limited by capacity.
Controlled processing is deliberate, requires attention, and is influenced by individual control.

Attention Frameworks by Sohlberg & Mateer

Focused, sustained, selective, alternating, and divided attention describe different attention capabilities.
Updated model emphasizes executive control and working memory, differentiating it from divided attention.

Attention Deficits in Disorders

Right Hemisphere Damage (RHD): lacks specific details.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): causes challenges in sustained and selective attention, cognitive processing speed.
Dementia: particularly affects working memory and is characterized by variability in attention.

Challenges in Assessing Attention

Attention assessment is complex due to varying modalities and difficulty isolating attention from other cognitive functions.
High ecological validity and construct challenges make testing time-consuming; various methods should be employed for comprehensive evaluation.

Direct Training Treatments Principles

Should be based on a theoretical model and structured hierarchically.
Requires repetition and intensity, along with systematic data collection, to guide treatment decisions.
Emphasizes flexibility and real-world application for enhancing attention skills.

Self-Management Programs Principles

These involve understanding the individual's attention impairments and engaging clients in identifying strategies.
Stress the importance of outcome assessment, practice opportunities, and support systems to maintain long-term improvements.
Techniques may include routine task lists and goal management training to improve attention in everyday tasks.

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Description

Explore the foundational concepts of attention through these flashcards. Understand the distinction between external and internal stimuli and how they influence our focus. Perfect for reinforcing your knowledge from Psychology Chapter 1.