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distinctness

n.

1. the quality of being perceived clearly and as separate from other stimuli that is characteristic of an object upon which attention is focused.

2. in tasks requiring selective attention, the extent to which the target is different from distractor stimuli. Performance on selective attention tasks is better when the target is distinct from the distractors.

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Psychology term of the day

January 5th 2025

head-of-the-table effect

head-of-the-table effect

the propensity for group members to associate the leadership role and its responsibilities with the seat located at the head of the table. As a result, individuals who occupy such positions tend to emerge as leaders in groups without designated leaders. See also Steinzor effect.