The process by which our sensory receptor and nervous system receive and represent stimulus energies from our environment.

The process by which our brain organizes and interprets sensory information, transforming it into meaningful objects and events.

Analysis that begins with the sensory receptors and works up to the brain's integration of sensory information.

Information processing guided by higher-level mental processes, as when we construct perceptions drawing on our experience and expectations.

Changing one form of energy into another. In sensation, the transforming of stimulus energies, such as sights, sounds, and smells, into neural impulses our brain can interpret.

The minimum stimulation needed to detect a particular stimulus 50 percent of the time.

Below our absolute threshold for conscious awarness.

The minimum difference between two stimuli required for detection 50 percet of the time. We experience the difference threshold as a jus noticeable difference

The principle that, to be perceived as different, two stimuli must differ by a constant minimum percentage (rather than a constant amount)

Represents reduction in sensitivity in response to constant stimulation.

Helps focus on informative, environmental chage through by-passing background chatter.

Mental Predisposition to perceive one thing rather than another.

The effects of perceptual set show how experience helps us construct perception. But the immediate context also plays a role.