What occurs when the brain processes sensory information to create meaningful impressions?

The process described in the question relates to perception, which is the interpretation of sensory information to form a meaningful understanding of the environment. While sensation refers to the initial detection of stimuli by sensory organs, perception takes this raw sensory input and organizes, integrates, and interprets it in the context of previous experiences, knowledge, and expectations. For example, when light hits the retina, the eyes sense the information, but perception allows the brain to recognize and understand it as a specific object, such as recognizing a friend in a crowded room.

This distinction highlights why understanding perception is critical in psychology, as it influences how we interpret and respond to our environment.