Attention theory

Harriet A. Allen

Chapter 6 in Elgar Concise Encyclopedia of Neuroscience and Management, 2026, pp 22-24 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: Attention is the mechanism by which the brain filters out distractions and enhances processing of task-relevant information. There have been multiple theories of attention. In the modern era, these began with simple filter theories, which were developed into feature integration theory and guided search theory, among others. This chapter also discusses load theory, which highlights how attention is influenced by perceptual and cognitive demands. Applications span interface design, marketing, transport, and workplace environments. The discussion integrates neuropsychological and behavioural evidence, offering insights into attentional control and individual differences.

Keywords: Selective processing; Visual search; Attentional control; Load theory; Interface design; Decision-making (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
ISBN: 9781035332885
References: Add references at CitEc
Citations:

Downloads: (external link)
https://www.elgaronline.com/doi/10.4337/9781035332892.00012 (application/pdf)

Related works:
This item may be available elsewhere in EconPapers: Search for items with the same title.

Export reference: BibTeX RIS (EndNote, ProCite, RefMan) HTML/Text

Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:elg:eechap:23335_7

Ordering information: This item can be ordered from
http://www.e-elgar.com

Access Statistics for this chapter

More chapters in Chapters from Edward Elgar Publishing
Bibliographic data for series maintained by Jack Sweeney ().