categorical perception

in speech perception, the phenomenon in which a continuous acoustic dimension, such as voice-onset time, is perceived as having distinct categories with sharp discontinuities at certain points. Whereas discrimination is much more accurate between categories, individuals tested are often unable to discriminate between acoustically different stimuli that fall within the same categorical boundaries. Categorical perception is crucial in the identification of phonemes.

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Psychology term of the day

February 17th 2025

binocular suppression

the ability of stimulation through one eye to inhibit the response or sensitivity to stimulation through the other eye. See binocular rivalry.