sensitivity

1. the capacity to detect and discriminate. In signal detection theory, sensitivity is measured by d prime (d′).

2. the probability that results from a test will indicate a positive diagnosis given that the individual actually has the condition for which he or she is being tested. Compare specificity.

3. in physiology, the ability of a cell, tissue, or organism to respond to changes in its external or internal environment. Sensitivity is a fundamental property of all living organisms.

4. awareness of and responsiveness to the feelings of others.

5. susceptibility to being easily hurt or offended.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

equity theory

a theory of justice regarding what individuals are likely to view as a fair return from activities involving themselves and a number of other people. The theory posits that people compare the ratio of the outcome of the activity—that is, the benefits they receive from it (e.g., pay, fringe benefits, intrinsic gratifications, recognition)—to their inputs (e.g., effort, seniority, skills, social status) with the outcome-to-input ratios of those engaged in a comparable activity. Outcomes are equitable only when people receive benefits that are proportional to their inputs. See external inequity; internal inequity; overpayment inequity; underpayment inequity.