After hearing rumors about the outbreak of an infectious disease, Alyosha began to perceive his normal aches and pains as disease-related symptoms. His reaction best illustrates the impact of

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Alyosha's perception is influenced by his perceptual set, which refers to a cognitive tendency to interpret sensory information based on our preexisting beliefs, expectations, and experiences. In this case, his belief about the outbreak of an infectious disease shapes his interpretation of his bodily sensations as symptoms of that disease.

After Hearing Rumors About the Outbreak of an Infectious Disease