Types of Attention

Definition

          The process through which certain stimuli are selected from a group of others is generally referred to as attention (NCERT, XI).

          A state in which cognitive resources are focused on certain aspects of the environment rather than on others and the central nervous system is in a state of readiness to respond to stimuli (APA).

          In essence attention is the state of awareness centred towards the specific stimuli.

Meaning

          The efforts required to assemble the cognitive faculties in response of sensory or psychological inputs.

          In simple terms attention is voluntary or involuntary attending to the external or internal stimuli.

The attention is mainly of following four types: -

(i)       Sustained Attention

(ii)      Selective Attention

(iii)     Divided Attention

(iv)     Alternating Attention

(i)       Sustained Attention – The mental capacity to remain focused on a stimuli for longer duration is called sustained attention. For example watching a movie, dancing on DJ floor, reading a book, listening a lecture or cooking a dish, painting etc. It is also referred as span of attention (the ability to remain focused on one stimulus at a time). The duration and quality of attention can be improved with practice.

(ii)      Selective Attention – It can also be referred to as focused or intentional attention. It means selecting or focusing on one stimulus from the group of stimuli. The stimuli that are perceived to be irrelevant are screened out or rejected because they are expected to interfere with the attention process. For example listen to one’s name in the midst of a commotion.

(iii)     Divided Attention – The ability to keep focus on more than one stimulus or event simultaneously. The cognitive resources which are required for attention are divided, to maintain focus on multiple stimuli at the same time. It can be expressed through engaging in multitasking. For example driving and listing to music. Divided attention can also be improved through sustained practice. However, some studies suggest that it is not feasible to maintain our attention on more than one object simultaneously; the only thing is that attention shifts between tasks rapidly.

(iv)     Alternating Attention – The ability to shift or switch concentration or focus among various stimuli simultaneously. Alternating attention expresses the degree flexibility in cognitive resources. This type of attention is most commonly found in sales persons who deal with multiple customers at the same time.

Apart From Above Discussed Various manuals and Books Describes Following Attention Types

(i)       Primary attention;

(ii)      Effortless attention;

(iii)     External attention

(iv)     Internal attention;

(v)      Involuntary attention;

(vi)     Post-voluntary attention;

(vii)    Secondary attention;

(viii)   Spatial attention;

(ix)     Visual attention;

(x)      Auditory attention.

References:

1.       NCERT, XI Psychology Text book.

2.       https://www.bitbrain.com/blog/what-is-attention-types.