Perception: identification and instrumental activity.

Abstract

"The present paper suggests a conceptualization of the perceptual process which distinguishes two distinct ohases in perception: (a) an initial response related to some dimensional pattern in the environmental stimulation; and (b) an instrumental response which is contingent upon the former. This formulation is presented primarily with the intent of ordering available data on perceptual processes, and suggesting further areas of research which would systematically evaluate the effect of various variables on the components of the complex perceptual process. In discussing the implications of the formulation, it was indicated what meaningful questions could be raised on the basis of the view which is presented here." 26 references.