How is categorical perception different from continuous perception?
A) Some exemplars of a stimulus category are perceived as much better than others.
B) Subjects respond equally well to any kind of change along a physical gradient.
C) The proportion of identifications as one vs. another category of stimuli has a very steep slope around some boundary that is not based on physical differences.
D) It involves a continuously updating perception.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Categorical perception involves perceiving distinct categories of stimuli, with a very steep slope in identification proportion around a category boundary that is not based on physical differences. In contrast, continuous perception involves responding equally to any kind of change along a physical gradient, without perceiving distinct categories. Option A describes graded perception, where some exemplars of a stimulus category are perceived as better than others. Option D describes dynamic perception, where perception continuously updates in response to changing stimuli.

How Is Categorical Perception Different from Continuous Perception