Certificate In Psychology (CPSY) Practice Exam

Which of the following correctly describes the order of the phases in the process of attention?

1. sustained attention, stimulus detection reflex, stimulus orienting, attention termination

2. stimulus orienting, sustained attention, attention termination, stimulus ignoring

3. stimulus orienting, stimulus detecting reflex, sustained attention, attention termination

4. stimulus detection reflex, stimulus orienting, sustained attention, attention termination

The correct answer is: stimulus detection reflex, stimulus orienting, sustained attention, attention termination

The correct sequence in the process of attention outlined in the selected option accurately reflects the cognitive operations involved. Initially, stimulus detection reflects the automatic response to a significant stimulus in the environment. This reflexive detection is where an individual becomes aware of a stimulus that requires their attention. Following this, the process moves to stimulus orienting, where an individual directs their attention towards the detected stimulus, enhancing the ability to engage with it more deeply. This phase involves actively scanning and focusing on the relevant information in the environment. Next is sustained attention, which refers to the ability to maintain focus on the stimulus over time, thereby allowing for ongoing processing and engagement. This phase is crucial for tasks that require prolonged concentration and is fundamental for learning and memory. Finally, attention termination occurs when focus on the stimulus is no longer needed or relevant, allowing the individual to shift their attention elsewhere or disengage from the mental effort associated with the prior stimulus. This systematic process underscores how individuals interact with their environment and highlights the cognitive framework of attention within psychology. Each phase is critical for understanding attention's role in perception and cognitive functioning.