Respond to fatiha discussion
Description
Based on the materials presented above (or other sources), consider how we “believe” the information we perceive. Where do individual differences seem to arise in the way we perceive the world? Include an example of how perception is influenced by our prior experiences, learning, or environments.
The perception of what we think we see, hear, and feel can be quite different from what’s actually happening. The Auditory Illusions article stated that the sounds heard were only from a piano with no lyrics or other instruments (MonotoneTim, 2015). This is what was actually happening or the reality. My perception was that a piano was being played over the MP3 version, which was masking the vocals and other instruments. Even though it was not there, my brain still searched for the vocals and filled them in with the sounds of the piano keys.
The differences in how people perceive things are based on their previous experience, environment, and understandings of the world. A trained animal keeper would approach a pack of cheetahs pouncing on one another and feel completely comfortable as he/she knows that they are playful. Based on his/her knowledge and experience with dealing with animals, the situation is not perceived as dangerous. As a person who has only seen cheetahs on the animal planet, I would go into immediate cardiac arrest if I approach the same situation, fearing that my life has come to an end. The reality of the situation is that the cheetahs have no interest in me unless I pose a threat to them. My lack of knowledge and exposure to this environment tells me that I am in immediate danger and my fight or flight responses kick in.
Another example that came to mind is psychological abuse. Psychological abuse, especially in children, can dictate how they perceive the world around them. A child that has been abused may see the world and perceive situations much differently than a child that experienced a healthy upbringing.
Describe the combined roles of two different senses in coordinated behavior using an example. Some examples could include performing a dance, playing a musical instrument (especially with others), playing a video game, walking on a balance beam, climbing a tree, performing a pole vault, or a turnaround jump shot. What are the differences and similarities in the roles of the two senses? How are sensation and perception involved in the behavior?
An activity that many of us do frequently that requires the coordination of different senses is driving. Operating a motor vehicle requires the engagement of multiple senses, which is why it becomes dangerous when one is distracted while doing. When driving a vehicle, we must have a clear visual of where we are and where we are going. When operating the vehicle’s gears, we sense our speed by sound, sight, and feeling. Generally, when driving a manual, you can feel and hear when the vehicle needs to shift gears and do so using coordination between both your hands and feet. You also must be vigilant of other motorists and pedestrians on the road, which can combine sight and sound at times. When we approach another vehicle, we quickly sense our speed and determine if we need to adjust based on how fast or slow the other vehicles are going. Being able to incorporate the senses continuously allows us to operate a vehicle safely. When you remove any of the necessary senses driving can become dangerous.
Reference:
YouTube. (2015). Auditory Illusions: Hearing Lyrics Where There Are None. YouTube.
Wilson, C. (2017, May 19). Our brains prefer invented visual information to the real thing. New Scientist.
