PSYC 357 Chapter Notes -Visual Acuity, Frontal Lobe, Episodic Memory
20 Feb 2014
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Psych 357 ch 6 (basic cognitive functions: abilities to learn, remember, problem solve and learn in the world are key to adapting, field of cognition central to adult dev/aging. Reaction time= time to respond to stimulus: we are quicker when we"re younger, increases w/age generally not hugely noticeable in everyday lfie (tho can see dif in lab) Most studies suggest that ppl become less efficient as they get older in the use of attentional processes. Attentional resources: older adults have less energy available for cognitive processes than younger ppl across wide domain of tasks. Vs inhibitory deficit hypothesis: aging reduces ability to inhibit/ignore irrelevant info: much data to support this. Remembering where an item was in a visual display seems to be unaffected by the aging process, visual search better. Sustained attn= to maintain attn over prolonged period of time. Part of memory that keeps info temporarily available and active.
