Tipos de Atención: Dividida, Sostenida y Selectiva

Atención is a cognitive process that involves selecting and processing information from our environment. It allows us to focus on relevant stimuli while filtering out irrelevant ones. There are several types of attention, including divided attention, sustained attention, and selective attention. These three types of attention are essential for humans to function effectively in complex environments. In this article, we will explore each type of attention in detail.

Divided Attention

Divided attention refers to the ability to pay attention to multiple tasks simultaneously. This type of attention is particularly important when individuals must perform two or more tasks concurrently. For example, walking while texting requires dividing attention between maintaining balance and sending messages. Dividing attention can lead to decreased performance due to resource limitations, increased mental workload, distraction, or multi-task interference. Studies show that dual task performance deteriorates with increasing age and impairment.

Sustained Attention

Sustained attention refers to the ability to maintain attention over extended periods without interruption. This type of attention allows us to stay focused on specific goals or tasks, such as concentrating during lengthy classroom lectures or remaining alert while driving for hours. Research shows that sustained attention declines across the day, and its decline may be influenced by circadian factors. Additionally, prolonged exposure to stimulating media, such as video games or smartphones, may contribute to reduced sustained attention.

Selective Attention

Selective attention refers to the ability to direct attention towards one stimulus while ignoring others. This type of attention is crucial for efficient information processing in complex environments where multiple sources of stimulation are present. For instance, listening to a conversation in a crowded room requires selectively attending to the speaker's voice and disregarding other sounds. Studies indicate that selective attention improves with practice, such as through training attention using computerized attention training programs.

In conclusion, understanding these different types of attention helps us appreciate the complexity of cognitive processes involved in daily life. By recognizing the strengths and weaknesses associated with each type of attention, we can make informed decisions about how to optimize our attention and minimize potential drawbacks.