Chapter 5: Attention

Early select hypothesis

filter for inattentive block occurs prior to ID process

• encode everything, filter, then ID 

• supported by dichotic hearing test

Late select hypothesis

Filter for inattentive block occurs prior to ID process

• encode everything, ID, filter

• supported by stroop effect (colored word test)

Attentional guidance

shift from late to early; shifting attention/tasks

Top-Down guidance

attention is directed/originates from a task

• look both ways crossing the street

• iSPY

Bottom-up attentional guidance

attention is guided by stimulus

• turn your head to a bang noise

• notice neon sign first

Cueing

part of top-down attentional guidance, providing a “hint”/info before stimuli

• where eyes are pointed tell you where to look

• respond faster 

Unilateral neglect

form of attentional dysfunction where damage to the partial cortex results in inability to pay attention to ½ of your field of vision

• lines and Xs

• Peas 

divided attention

distributing focus across several things (opposite of selective)

domain specific

2 tasks interfere because they both require the same system to be activated

• both tasks require hearing 

Domain general 

2tasks interfere because they share a general control mechanism 

• ex. cognitive control 

frontal lobe damage to divided attention 

can’t shift attention 

parietal lobe damage to divided attention 

can’t control when you shift