Group 8: Auditory Theories & Phenomena

Place theory

Pitch perception based on location along basilar membrane

Frequency theory

Pitch perception based on firing rate of auditory neurons

Volley theory

Groups of neurons fire in sequence to encode higher-frequency sounds

Traveling wave theory

Updated place theory, basilar membrane moves, peaking at specific locations based on frequency

Sound localization cues

Intensity, timing, and sound shadow differences between ears

Cocktail party effect

Ability to focus on one conversation while ignoring others

Dichotic listening

Research technique where different messages are sent to each ear

Conductive deafness

Hearing loss caused by damage to mechanical system of middle ear

Sensorineural deafness

Hearing loss caused by damage to cochlea or auditory nerve, also called perceptive deafness

Cochlear implants

Devices converting sound into electrical signals to stimulate auditory nerve