preattentive processing

cognitive processing of a stimulus that occurs nonconsciously before attention has focused on this particular stimulus from among the array of those present in a given environment. Preattentive processing is thought to identify basic stimulus features in parallel, with high capacity. Also called preattentive analysis; preperceptual processing. See also parallel processing.

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Psychology term of the day

November 25th 2024

motor agraphia

a writing disorder resulting from impairment of muscular coordination in the hand.