Visual Perceptual Constancy

Definition

Visual perceptual constancy refers to the ability of our brain to perceive objects as having a consistent shape, size, and color despite changes in the sensory input. It allows us to recognize an object regardless of variations in lighting conditions or viewing angles.

Related terms

Bottom-Up Processing: This term refers to the process by which we construct our perception based on the individual features or details of an object. For example, when identifying an apple, bottom-up processing involves analyzing its shape, color, and texture.

Top-Down Processing: Top-down processing occurs when we use our prior knowledge and expectations to interpret incoming sensory information. For instance, if you see something round and red from a distance, top-down processing may lead you to perceive it as an apple.

Gestalt Principles:

Gestalt principles are rules that describe how we organize visual stimuli into meaningful patterns. These principles include proximity (objects close together are perceived as belonging together), similarity (similar objects are grouped together), and closure (we tend to fill in missing parts of incomplete figures).