APpsych Unit 3 sensory adaptation vs. habituation

A phenomenon in which the body's sensory responses to an external stimulus decreases over time as the brain adjusts to the stimulus, becoming less sensitive or responsive to it.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation

A phenomenon that occurs when a stimulus, repeated over time, ceases to lead to a psychological/behavioral response.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation

Going to the same haunted house for halloween and not being frightened anymore by the ghoul at the front door.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation

Garbage men are not bothered by the pungent smell of waste due to olfactory fatigue.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation

The ability to tune out the lawn being mowed next door while you study.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation

The nervousness at a job on your first day vs. 6 months later at the same job.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation

Being uncomfortable using a standing desk for the first time, then getting used to using the standing desk a month later with no discomfort.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation

Waking up for the first day of school vs. waking up for school in the 3rd marking period.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation

Commuting 45 minutes to work the first day and it feeling extremely long versus 2 years later with the same commute.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation

Your romantic partner’s table manners used to be quite annoying. But after several years of marriage, they’re hardly noticeable.

• Habituation

• Sensory adaptation