The hidden preattentive processes.

In the context of detection, attention, and filtering processes and how they affect responses to information, a number of recent experiments are discussed which show that incoming stimuli are segregated into regions, so that it is easier for attention to select a complete region. There is also evidence showing that semantic effects from context, word frequency, or emotionality have different loci in the perceptual system. These results suggest an early, passive, and global analysis of information with a later, active, and more detailed stage. Tests of personal bias or motive in perception will need to consider these different levels. (29 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2010 APA, all rights reserved)