Question

Provide a description and an example of a realistic situation using each of the following types of attention. Your examples should include names and a scenario for each (i.e., you will provide a short story for each). Selective Attention

Controlled processing

Automatic processing

Vigilance

Cocktail party phenomenon

Divided Attention

Answer 1

Selective Attention- Selective attention is simply the act of focusing on a particular object for a period of time while simultaneously ignoring irrelevant information that is also occurring. This occurs on a daily basis and can be seen in most daily interactions.

Controlled processing- Some other examples of controlled processing include the first time a person drives a car, writing a letter to a friend, and answering interview questions.

Automatic processing- Automatic processing does not require us to pay attention, nor do we have to deliberately put in effort to control automatic processes.

Vigilance- Vigilance is the state of constantly being watchful of potential dangers or threats. An example of vigilance is when a security guard is always on alert, waiting and watching for something to happen.

Cocktail party phenomenon- For instance, a person is in a arty and their name is deliberately called out in an interaction. Even if the relevant person was not paying attention previously, the likeliness of paying attention upon hearing their name is increased manifold.

Divided Attention- When two tasks are undertaken simultaneously, divided attention is said to be at work. For instance, driving and talking on the phone.