Question
Briefly describe filter-attenuation theory.
Solution
Filter-attenuation theory was developed by Triesman (1962) by modifying Broadbent’s theory. According to this theory the stimuli not getting access to the selective filter at a given moment of time are not completely blocked. The filter only attenuates their strength. Thus, some stimuli manage to escape through the selective filter to reach higher levels of processing. It is indicated that personally relevant stimuli can be noticed even at a very low level of sound. Such stimuli, even though fairly weak, may also generate response occasionally by slipping through the selective filter.
