Question

Describe and discuss two important aspects of selective attention.

(hint: what does it do and what does it not do?).

Answer 1

• Selective attention is the ability to select from mnay factors or stimuli to focus on only the one that you want while filtering out other distractions.Its just focusing on one activity in the midst of many activities for example,listening to a friend in a loud music party.While using this type of attention,you can ignore any distractions internal(thoughts) or external(loud music) and focus your attention on something which you want selectively.
• With this type of attention you cannot alternate between two things.One thing will be in focus during a particular time and you cannot also divide your attention,simultaenously doing two or more tasks.With selective attention,you cannot back and forth between two different tasks that require different brain areas.
• For example,in selective attention,you wont be able to check your email and talk to someone on the phone simulatenously. Either you talk on phone or check your email,both things cannot happen.