Sensation and Perception - Basic Concepts and Psychophysics

This set covers vocabulary related to the basic concepts of psychophysics, threshold definitions, signal detection outcomes, and sensory processing from the lecture transcript.

Sensation

The stimulation of information from sense organs such as the eyes, touch, hearing, smell, and taste.

Perception

The organization and interpretation of stimulus information by brain regions, particularly the cortical regions, to create what we then perceive.

Psychophysics

The study of how physical stimuli (sensation) are translated into psychological experiences (perceptions).

Threshold

The dividing point between energy levels that do and do not have a detectable effect.

Absolute threshold

The minimum amount of sensory information or stimulation that an organism can detect.

Just noticeable difference (JND)

Also known as the difference threshold, it is the smallest difference in the amount of stimulation that a specific sense detects between a previous and current level of intensity.

Signal detection theory

A theory involving both sensory processes (stimulus condition) and decision processes (cognitive/subjective experiences) influenced by factors besides stimulus intensity.

Hit

A correct outcome in signal detection theory where a signal is detected when it is actually present.

Correct rejection

A correct outcome in signal detection theory where a signal is not detected because it is actually absent.

False alarm

An error in signal detection theory where a signal is detected when it is not actually present.

Miss

An error in signal detection theory where one fails to detect a signal when it is actually present.

Perception without awareness

The registration of sensory input without conscious awareness of that information, as seen in split-brain patient Joe.

Sensory adaptation

A gradual decline in sensitivity due to prolonged stimulation resulting from the sensory system becoming fatigued.