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comparator

n. an information-processing unit that compares one variable against a similar variable or standard measure and—based on the difference—may act to bring the variable within desired limits. For example, a thermostat may compare the ambient temperature against a preset temperature, turning the heating system on or off to minimize or eliminate any difference. See also brain comparator; servomechanism.

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Psychology term of the day

February 1st 2025

attentional narrowing

attentional narrowing

the restricting of attention in high-stress situations to a small set of information sources, with the potential omission of critical, task-relevant information. For example, when driving to the hospital for a medical emergency, the driver may focus attention only on the road ahead and not notice events at the side of the road, such as a pedestrian entering a crosswalk.