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Do you understand perception in psychology well? Take this psychology quiz on perception to test your knowledge. Perception is the process of awareness of objects, relationships, and events through the senses, including recognizing, observing, and discriminating. If you understand this concept, it will be an easy quiz for you. Try it out with this practice quiz. All the best! You can easily get a perfect score on this quiz. If you find the quiz helpful and informative, share it with other psychologists.
Questions and Answers
1.
The focusing of conscious awareness on a particular stimulus, as in the cocktail party effect
Explanation Selective attention refers to the process of consciously focusing one's awareness on a specific stimulus while filtering out other irrelevant stimuli. This cognitive ability allows individuals to concentrate on a particular task or sensory input, such as listening to a conversation at a crowded cocktail party. It helps us prioritize and allocate our limited cognitive resources to the most relevant information, enhancing our ability to process and understand the selected stimulus while ignoring distractions. Therefore, selective attention accurately describes the phenomenon of focusing conscious awareness on a particular stimulus, as mentioned in the question.
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2.
Failing to see visible objects when our attention is directed somewhere else.
Explanation Inattentional blindness refers to the phenomenon of not being able to perceive or notice a visible object or event when our attention is focused on something else. This occurs because our attention is limited and can only process a certain amount of information at a time. Therefore, when our attention is directed elsewhere, we may fail to see or notice objects that are clearly visible to us. This can happen even if the objects are right in front of us, leading to a lack of awareness or perception of those objects.
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3.
An organized whole. These psychologists emphasized our tendency to integrate pieces of information into meaningful wholes. They also explain principles by which we organize our sensations into perceptions.
Explanation The given answer is referring to the concept of Gestalt and the psychologists who developed this theory. Gestalt psychologists focused on how we perceive and organize information as a whole rather than as individual parts. They believed that our minds naturally seek to create meaningful patterns and structures from the stimuli we encounter. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the overall context and organization of information in order to fully comprehend our perceptions.
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4.
The organization of the visual field into objects (the field) that stand out from their surroundings (the ground)
Explanation The concept of figure-ground refers to the organization of the visual field into objects that stand out from their surroundings. It is the ability to distinguish between the main object or figure and the background or ground. This concept helps us perceive and make sense of our visual environment by separating the important information from the irrelevant or less significant elements.
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5.
The perceptual tendency to organize stimuli into coherent groups
Explanation Grouping refers to the perceptual tendency to organize stimuli into coherent groups based on their similarity, proximity, continuity, and closure. This allows us to make sense of the complex and fragmented information we receive from our senses. By grouping similar elements together, we can perceive patterns, shapes, and objects more easily. This cognitive process helps us to organize and understand the world around us, making our perception more efficient and meaningful.
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6.
The ability to see objects in three dimensions, although the images that strike the retina are two-dimensional. It allows us to judge distance.
A.
Binocular cues
B.
Retinal Disparity
C.
Depth Perception
D.
Retinal perception
Correct Answer
C. Depth Perception
Explanation Depth perception refers to the ability to perceive the distance and three-dimensional aspects of objects, even though the images that reach the retina are two-dimensional. It is achieved through the combination of various visual cues, such as binocular cues and retinal disparity. Binocular cues involve the comparison of the slightly different images received by each eye, allowing the brain to calculate depth. Retinal disparity refers to the difference in the images seen by each eye, which the brain uses to perceive depth. Therefore, depth perception is the correct answer as it accurately describes the ability to judge distance and perceive objects in three dimensions.
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7.
Depth cues that depend on the use of two eyes
A.
Binocular cues
B.
Monocular cues
C.
Retinal disparity
D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Binocular cues
Explanation Binocular cues are depth cues that rely on the use of both eyes. These cues include retinal disparity, which is the slight difference in the images seen by each eye due to their slightly different perspectives. This difference allows the brain to perceive depth and judge distances accurately. Monocular cues, on the other hand, only require one eye to perceive depth and include cues such as relative size, overlap, and texture gradient. Therefore, binocular cues are the correct answer as they specifically refer to depth cues that depend on the use of two eyes.
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8.
By comparing images from the two eyeballs, the brain computes distance. The greater the distance between the two images, the closer the object.
A.
Retinal disparity
B.
Convergence
C.
Relative Size
D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Retinal disparity
Explanation Retinal disparity refers to the difference in the images captured by each eye due to their slightly different positions. The brain uses this information to compute the distance of objects. When an object is closer, the retinal disparity is greater because the images from each eye are more different. Therefore, the correct answer is retinal disparity as it explains how the brain uses the comparison of images from both eyes to determine distance.
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9.
The extent to which the eyes converge inward when looking at an object. A binocular cue for perceiving depth.
A.
Retinal disparity
B.
Convergence
C.
Relative clarity
D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Convergence
Explanation Convergence refers to the extent to which the eyes turn inward when focusing on an object. This binocular cue helps us perceive depth by providing information about the distance between the eyes and the object. When an object is close, the eyes converge more, and when it is far away, they converge less. Therefore, convergence is the correct answer as it accurately describes the concept of the eyes converging inward as a cue for perceiving depth.
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10.
Distant objects appear smaller, which also means that sometimes smaller-looking objects may be perceived as more distant than they really are.
A.
Relative size
B.
Interposition
C.
Texture gradient
D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Relative size
Explanation The explanation for the correct answer, which is "Relative size," is that distant objects appear smaller. This means that when we see smaller-looking objects, our brain may perceive them as being farther away than they actually are. This is because our brain uses the size of objects as a cue to determine their distance. So, in this case, the concept of relative size helps us understand how our perception of an object's size can influence our perception of its distance.
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11.
If one object partially blocks our view of another, we perceive it as closer.
A.
Interposition
B.
Relative clarity
C.
Relative motion
D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Interposition
Explanation When one object partially blocks our view of another, it creates the perception that the blocking object is closer to us than the object being blocked. This phenomenon is known as interposition. It occurs because our brain interprets the overlap of objects as a depth cue, inferring that the object in front is closer and the object behind is farther away. So, when we encounter a situation where one object obstructs our view of another, we tend to perceive the obstructing object as closer due to interposition.
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12.
We perceive hazy objects as farther away than clear objects
A.
Texture gradient
B.
Relative clarity
C.
Relative motion
D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. Relative clarity
Explanation Relative clarity refers to the concept that objects that appear clearer and sharper are perceived as being closer to us, while objects that appear hazy or less clear are perceived as being farther away. This is because when objects are closer, we are able to see more details and perceive them as clearer. On the other hand, when objects are farther away, they appear more hazy and less distinct. Therefore, the perception of relative clarity plays a role in our depth perception and helps us determine the distance of objects in our surroundings.
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13.
Objects far away appear smaller and more densely packed. A gradual change from a distinct coarse texture to a fine indistinct texture, signals increasing distance.
A.
Texture gradient
B.
Linear perspective
C.
Relative disparity
D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Texture gradient
Explanation The explanation for the correct answer, "Texture gradient," is that objects that are far away appear smaller and more densely packed. This means that the texture of these objects becomes finer and less distinct as the distance increases. This phenomenon is known as the texture gradient. Linear perspective refers to the way parallel lines appear to converge in the distance, while relative disparity refers to the difference in the location of an object as seen by the left and right eyes.
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14.
Relative height is an example of a monocular cue.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation Relative height is an example of a monocular cue because it is a visual depth cue that can be perceived with just one eye. It refers to the phenomenon where objects that are higher in the visual field are perceived as being farther away. This is because we have learned through experience that objects that are closer to us tend to be lower in our visual field, while objects that are farther away tend to be higher. Therefore, when we see an object that is higher in our visual field, we interpret it as being farther away.
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15.
Check the ones that are monocular cues.
A.
Convergence
B.
Grouping
C.
Light and Shadow
D.
Relative Clarity
Correct Answer(s)
C. Light and Shadow D. Relative Clarity
Explanation Light and shadow and relative clarity are monocular cues. Monocular cues are visual cues that can be perceived with one eye. Light and shadow cues refer to the way light and shadows create depth and form in a scene. Relative clarity is the perception that objects that are closer appear clearer and more detailed than objects that are farther away. Convergence and grouping, on the other hand, are binocular cues that require the use of both eyes to perceive depth and distance.
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16.
An illusion of movement is created when two or more adjacent lights blink on and off in quick succession.
Correct Answer(s) Phi phenomenon
Explanation The Phi phenomenon refers to the perception of movement when two or more adjacent lights blink on and off rapidly. This phenomenon occurs because our brain processes the rapid succession of lights as a continuous motion, creating the illusion of movement. It is commonly observed in various visual displays, such as animated signs or movies, where a sequence of still images is presented rapidly to create the perception of motion.
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17.
Perceiving objects as unchanging even as illumination and retinal images change. For example: when a door changes shape as it opens, we still perceive it as a door.
Correct Answer(s) Perceptual constancy
Explanation Perceptual constancy refers to the ability of our brain to perceive objects as unchanging despite changes in lighting conditions and the retinal image. This means that even when a door changes its shape as it opens, we still perceive it as a door. Our brain adjusts our perception to maintain a stable representation of objects in the external world, allowing us to recognize and understand them consistently.
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18.
In the vision, the ability to adjust to an artificially duplicated or even inverted visual field= perceptual adaptation.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation Perceptual adaptation refers to the brain's ability to adjust and adapt to changes in sensory input. In the context of vision, this refers to the brain's ability to adjust to an artificially duplicated or inverted visual field. This means that if someone is presented with a visual field that is artificially duplicated or inverted, their brain can adapt and make sense of the new visual information. Therefore, the statement "In the vision, the ability to adjust to an artificially duplicated or even inverted visual field = perceptual adaptation" is true.
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19.
A mental predisposition to perceive one thing and not another. It greatly influences what we perceive.
A.
Perceptual set
B.
Perceptual adaptation
C.
Convergence
D.
Emergence
Correct Answer
A. Perceptual set
Explanation Perceptual set refers to a mental predisposition that influences our perception, causing us to focus on certain aspects and ignore others. It is the tendency to perceive or interpret stimuli in a consistent way based on our past experiences, expectations, and cultural influences. This predisposition can shape our perception of objects, events, or situations, leading us to see what we expect or want to see, rather than what is actually there. In other words, our perceptual set filters and organizes incoming sensory information, shaping our perception of the world around us.
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20.
A branch of psychology that explores how people and machines interact and how machines and the physical environment can be made safe and easy to use.
Correct Answer Human factors psychologists
Explanation Human factors psychologists study the interaction between humans and machines as well as the design of machines and the physical environment to ensure safety and ease of use. They investigate how people perceive and process information, make decisions, and perform tasks, and use this knowledge to design user-friendly interfaces, improve human-machine interactions, and prevent accidents or errors. Human factors psychologists play a crucial role in various industries, such as aviation, healthcare, and technology, by applying their understanding of human behavior and cognition to enhance the usability and safety of systems and products.
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21.
Name the three most testable forms of ESP (separate with commas)
Explanation The three most testable forms of ESP are telepathy, clairvoyance, and precognition. These abilities involve the transmission or perception of information through means other than the known senses. Telepathy refers to the ability to communicate thoughts or feelings from one person to another without using normal communication methods. Clairvoyance involves perceiving information about objects, people, or events that are not within the range of normal sensory perception. Precognition refers to the ability to perceive or predict future events before they happen.
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22.
Is "mind over matter" ESP?
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation The statement "mind over matter" refers to the idea that the power of the mind can overcome physical challenges or limitations. ESP, on the other hand, stands for extrasensory perception, which is the ability to perceive information through means other than the known senses. These two concepts are not the same, as ESP involves perceiving information beyond what the mind can control or influence. Therefore, the correct answer is false.
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23.
Touch normally dominates hearing.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation Touch normally dominates hearing. This statement is false. In general, hearing is considered to be the dominant sense over touch. Hearing allows us to perceive and interpret a wide range of sounds, including speech, music, and environmental cues. It plays a crucial role in communication and perception of the world around us. While touch is important for tactile sensations and can provide valuable information, it is typically not as dominant as hearing in our daily experiences.
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24.
Without depth perception, we would be unable to judge distance, height, or depth.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation Without depth perception, our ability to accurately perceive and understand our surroundings would be greatly impaired. Depth perception allows us to accurately judge the distance between objects, determine the height of objects, and perceive the depth of a scene. It is an important visual cue that helps us navigate and interact with the world around us. Without depth perception, tasks such as driving, playing sports, or even simple everyday activities like pouring a glass of water would become challenging and potentially dangerous.
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25.
Click the two types of binocular cues
A.
Convergence cues
B.
Retinal disparity cues
C.
Relative height cues
D.
Emergence cues
Correct Answer(s)
A. Convergence cues B. Retinal disparity cues
Explanation Convergence cues and retinal disparity cues are both types of binocular cues that help us perceive depth and distance. Convergence cues refer to the inward movement of our eyes when focusing on nearby objects, while retinal disparity cues involve the slight difference in the images received by each eye, which our brain uses to determine depth. Relative height cues and emergence cues are not binocular cues, but rather monocular cues that help us perceive depth using only one eye.
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26.
Convergence is how the brain computes the relative distance of an object by comparing the slightly different images the object casts on our two retinas. The greater the difference, the closer the object must be.
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation Convergence is not about computing the relative distance of an object by comparing the slightly different images on our retinas. Convergence refers to the inward movement of the eyes to focus on a near object. It is a mechanism that helps in binocular vision and depth perception. Therefore, the given statement is false.
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27.
Perceptual constancy is necessary for vision to recognize an object, regardless of its changing angle, distance, or illumination
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation Perceptual constancy refers to the ability of our visual system to perceive objects as stable and unchanging, despite variations in their appearance due to factors such as angle, distance, and illumination. This is crucial for vision to accurately recognize and identify objects in our environment. Without perceptual constancy, our perception of objects would constantly change and be unreliable, making it difficult to navigate and interact with the world around us. Therefore, the statement "Perceptual constancy is necessary for vision to recognize an object, regardless of its changing angle, distance, or illumination" is true.
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28.
After cataract surgery, adults who had been blind from birth are able to experience and recognize shapes, forms, and complete faces
A.
True
B.
False
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation False. After cataract surgery, adults who had been blind from birth are not able to experience and recognize shapes, forms, and complete faces. This is because the critical period for visual development occurs during early childhood, and if the visual system does not receive proper stimulation during this time, it may not fully develop. Therefore, individuals who have been blind from birth may not be able to fully regain visual perception even after cataract surgery.
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29.
Context creates expectations that guide our ______
A.
Perceptions
B.
Sensory input
C.
Learned concepts (schemas)
D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
A. Perceptions
Explanation Our perceptions are influenced and shaped by the context in which we experience things. The context provides us with information and cues that help us make sense of sensory input and interpret it in a meaningful way. It also activates our learned concepts or schemas, which are mental frameworks that we use to organize and understand new information. Therefore, context plays a crucial role in guiding our perceptions.
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30.
Name the two types of parapsychology (separate with commas)