fetal response

a response of a fetus to environmental conditions. For example, there is an increase in the fetal heart rate when the mother smokes, and some investigators believe that there is an increase in fetal activity when the mother is undergoing severe emotional stress. See prenatal influence.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

perceptual distortion

skewed perceptual experience. Examples include the distorted images produced by dreams or hallucinogenic drugs, geometric illusions (e.g., the Müller-Lyer illusion), visions occurring in states of sensory deprivation or dehydration, and distortions produced by modifying auditory stimuli. Perceptual distortion may also occur as a consequence of acquired brain injury. See also metamorphopsia.