Understanding Perceptual Distortions and Synaesthesia

A series of flashcards to help review key vocabulary and concepts related to perceptual distortions and synaesthesia.

Perceptual Distortion

When the brain misinterprets sensory information, leading to an altered experience.

Visual Illusion

A misinterpretation of visual stimuli that makes something look different from how it really is.

Synaesthesia

A condition where senses are crossed, leading to experiences such as seeing sounds or tasting colors.

Müller-Lyer Illusion

An optical illusion where two lines of the same length appear different due to arrow-like ends.

Ponzo Illusion

An optical illusion where two horizontal lines of the same length appear different due to converging lines.

Ames Room Illusion

An illusion created by an oddly shaped room that makes people appear to grow or shrink.

Hermann Grid Illusion

An optical illusion where dark spots appear at the intersections of a black-and-white grid due to contrast adjustment.

Why do visual illusions occur?

Because the brain processes visual information in ways that sometimes create false perceptions.

Characteristics of Synaesthesia

Experiences that are real and automatic, consistent across different instances, and may enhance creativity.

Famous Individuals with Synaesthesia

People like Billie Eilish, Beyoncé, and Marilyn Monroe who experience synaesthesia and often use it creatively.