What type of processing starts with sensory receptors and builds up to brain integration?

Study for the AP Psychology exam - Biological Bases of Behavior section. Explore multiple choice questions with hints and explanations to ace your test!

Bottom-up processing is the correct choice as it refers to the method of perception that starts with the sensory receptors. This type of processing involves gathering sensory information and building a perception of the environment from the most basic elements up to more complex interpretations.

In bottom-up processing, the brain takes raw data from sensory inputs—such as light, sound, and touch—and constructs a larger understanding or interpretation based on that sensory information. For instance, when you see an object, your eyes detect the colors and shapes present, and your brain synthesizes this data to identify what the object is. This process highlights how our perceptions are constructed from the ground up, relying solely on the information provided by our senses.

In contrast, top-down processing begins with existing knowledge or expectations that influence how we perceive sensory information. Holistic processing and analytical processing relate more to methods of understanding and interpreting information rather than the initial sensory input and its integration in the brain.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy