The Power of Perception

Perception is the process by which we interpret or perceive information including our life experiences from birth to present. How we perceive or view our internal and external worlds is based on the reflection of our perception. I learned a story about perception while taking a CPR class. Apparently an EMS technician was sued for choking a patient by the patient’s love one. Of course there were no grounds for a lawsuit; however, as a result, when taking patients’ neck pulse it is best to take it on the side closet to you because of the power of perception. I conclude that in a state of panic our perception is vulnerable and our minds can play tricks on us.    

In psychology perception is characterized by sensory stimulation, sensory information, sensory organization, sensory identification, and sensory interpretation; and also involves the function of the brain or nervous system and sensory organs. Cognitive psychology examines perception when explaining the brain processes involved in human behavior, including how and why people behave in the manner that they do. Examining the brain functions involved in perception has given most attention to visual perception. The above dimensional shapes are drawn on a flat surface, however based on basic perceptual organization or arrangements (similarity, proximity, continuity, and closure) we perceive these shapes to be solid objects as we can measure the height, length, width, and circumference of dimensional shapes.  We are aware of the reality that the surface is flat, at the same time our perception is arranged so we see only dimensional objects and the space it appears to occupy. 

The power of perception is most observed or evident in visual perception. I believe this is because visual perception adheres to the scientific requirements needed to meet the standards of a valid scientific claim, in order to gain recognition as a legitimate study of psychology, and because it is most obvious. Perception of the external or material world demonstrates the visible power of perception. However, how we perceive our internal world is still a mystery as we continue to question and investigate why people behave in the manner that they do.

Personal Experience

It was a small office employee birthday party in the break-room and everyone was enjoying the birthday cake, everyone complimented the cake with the exception of Rebecca. Rebecca spoke candidly stating she has had better. Of course everyone thought Rebecca was being difficult as she commented on the texture, flavor, taste, essence, and the icing of the cake. I was new on the job and this was my first time at this office party so I keep quiet and just observed. Based on the little I knew, Rebecca went to culinary arts school and her mother who she stated was an excellent cooks and baker inspired and thought her what she knew. I understood Rebecca’s perspective considering her culinary experience, so when ask what I thought about Rebecca’s comments, I stated based on her culinary experience she would be more of a critique in comparison to us, which everyone agreed.