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PSYC 212 - Chapter 7 Study Guide
PSYC 212 - Chapter 7 Study Guide
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Describe how each of the following types of attention change as we approach older
adulthood: sustained attention, selective attention, divided attention.
Answer:
Sustained attention Is the ability to maintain attention to a selected
stimulus for a prolonged period of time. Also called vigilance.
- A study on sustained attention found that older adults performed as well
as younger adults. However, on complex vigilance (sustained attention)
tasks, older adults performance usually dropped. Pg. 228
Selective attention Is focusing on a specific aspect of experience that is
relevant while ignoring others that are irrelevant. Focusing on one voice
among many in a restaurant is an example or when you switched your
attention to the toes on your right foot.
- Older adults tend to be less adept at exercising selective attention
focusing on a specific aspect of experience while ignoring others. Pg. 227
Divided attention Involves concentrating on more than one activity at a
time. If you are listening to the TV while reading a book you are engaging
in divided attention.
Pg. 224 and
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What is working memory, and how does it differ from short-term memory?
Answer:
Working memory A mental workbench where individuals manipulate
and assemble information when making decisions, solving problems, and
comprehending written and spoken language.
- Working memory is described as more active and powerful in modifying
information than short-term memory
Short-term memory Is retention of info for up to 15-30 seconds, without
rehearsal of the information. Using rehearsal, individuals can keep
information in short-term memory longer.
Pg. 231
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