The influence of schemas on our interpretations of unfamiliar information best illustrates
A) context effects.
B) top-down processing.
C) bottom-up processing.
D) sensory adaptation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Schemas are pre-existing knowledge structures that help us interpret new information. This use of prior knowledge in interpreting new information is an example of top-down processing, where higher-level cognitive processes influence lower-level sensory processing. Context effects refer to how the context in which information is presented can influence our perception of it, while bottom-up processing refers to the process of building up perceptions from individual sensory stimuli. Sensory adaptation refers to the decrease in sensitivity of sensory receptors to constant, unchanging stimuli.

The Influence of Schemas on Our Interpretations of Unfamiliar Information