Sensory adaptation theory is the concept that our sensory receptors become less responsive to constant, unchanging stimuli over time. This means that we become less aware of a stimulus when it remains the same for an extended period.
Related terms
Habituation: The process of becoming accustomed to a repeated or familiar stimulus, leading to decreased responsiveness.
Desensitization: Gradually exposing someone to a feared object or situation until they become less anxious or fearful.
Selective attention: Focusing on specific stimuli while ignoring others.