What does the resource model of attention suggest?

Disable ads (and more) with a premium pass for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the MCAT Psychological, Social, and Biological Foundations of Behavior Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The resource model of attention posits that we have a finite pool of cognitive resources available for processing information and performing tasks. This model highlights that attention is a limited resource that can be depleted when engaging in multiple tasks or focusing intently on a single task. As a result, when we try to multitask, the demands on our cognitive resources can exceed our available capacity, leading to decreased performance or increased likelihood of errors.

This conceptual framework helps explain why individuals may experience difficulty when attempting to focus on multiple activities simultaneously or why task performance can suffer when cognitive resources are stretched thin. Understanding this limitation is crucial for optimizing attention management in various settings, such as studying, working, or driving. The other choices do not accurately reflect the central principle of the resource model; they may suggest ideas that are inconsistent with the notion of limited cognitive resources.