focusing effect

the ostensible phenomenon in which performance is better for trials in which the target is the object of special attentional focus (perhaps because it has particular significance for the participant). The phenomenon is of particular interest in studies of extrasensory perception and psychokinesis. See also decline effect; differential effect; position effect; preferential effect; sheep–goat effect; Zener cards.

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Psychology term of the day

January 13th 2025

occupational counseling

occupational counseling

an early 20th-century approach to vocational guidance. Three steps were identified in the process: (a) relevant knowledge of self, (b) realistic knowledge of occupations, and (c) true reasoning in making sensible choices. [proposed by U.S. educator Frank Parsons (1854–1908)]